Opener Bell in injury scare

Ian Bell is an injury doubt for Wednesday's clash

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Opener Ian Bell is an injury doubt for the fourth NatWest Series one-day international clash with New Zealand at the Brit Oval tomorrow.

The Warwickshire batsman tweaked a knee when playing touch-rugby with his team-mates on the outfield, and looking in a degree of pain, was forced to sit out England’s subsequent net sessions.

Alastair Cook has recovered from a shoulder problem which forced him out of the first three games of the series and would be a ready-made replacement for Bell if he is unfit.

Cook had been due to play for Essex in the Twenty20 Cup against Sussex this evening before rejoining up with England.

But now Cook will remain with the England squad which suggest Bell’s injury is of more than just a passing concern.

Paceman Ryan Sidebottom is also fit to face the Kiwis after recovering from a back strain.

The Nottinghamshire player helped England to victory at The Riverside but missed the abandoned game at Edgbaston and the defeat at Bristol.

New Zealand have received a major boost with all-rounder Jacob Oram fit to play for the first time in the series.

Oram has recovered from the hamstring injury which led to Grant Elliott, who had been playing for Weybridge in the Surrey League, being called into the squad.

It was thought Oram would only be fit to play as a batter but he has recovered sufficiently to be considered as a bowler as well.

Elliott has done well enough to keep his place, taking three for 23 at Edgbaston and scoring a half century at Bristol to rescue the Kiwis from 49 for five.

Brendon McCullum is likely to revert to donning the wicket keeping gloves to allow Oram’s inclusion at the expense of Gareth Hopkins.