LONDON: Chris Tremlett is “dying” to revive his Test career against Australia after being included in England’s squad for the fifth and final Ashes Test at The Oval, his Surrey home ground.
The 31-year-old fast bowler made his Test debut in 2007 but has played just 11 Tests with injuries, including a career-threatening back problem, checking his progress.
But the towering 6ft 7in paceman was called into England’s 14-man squad on Sunday after Yorkshire’s Tim Bresnan withdrew because of a back injury.
“I’m very hopeful,” the 31-year-old told a news conference at The Oval yesterday when asked about the chances of a Test recall.
“It’s been a long time coming and it’s been great to be back involved in the last two Test squads.
“I’ve had my injuries over the last couple of years and I’m dying to get an opportunity to play,” added Tremlett, who last played Test cricket against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates in January 2012.
Tremlett played an important role during England’s 3-1 Ashes series win in Australia in 2010/11, with 17 wickets in three matches.
He now returns to an England squad, who at 3-0 up with one to play have retained the Ashes, that have already won their third successive Test series against Australia.
“It was great to be involved in the Ashes back in Australia and it’s great to be back involved in the squad and getting a feel for being around the guys again,” Tremlett said.
“It’s great to be back at The Oval but unfortunately for Tim Bresnan he’s got injured and there was a spot there,” he added. AFP
