Plunkett out

Following the series win against the West Indies the selectors have announced the squad for the 4th Test which includes Matthew Hoggard as expected, at the expense of Liam Plunkett. Steve Harmison has managed to save himself with some hostile bowling over the last couple of days at Old Trafford. Peter Moores must be wondering about the balance in his side - he is now going to play in the next Test with 4 players who shouldn't really bat higher than 10 in a Test match....one of them is going to be coming in 8! While this is unlikely to be exposed against the West Indies, it's not a situation he's likely to be happy with in the long-term.

On the batting side of things, Strauss is again under pressure to play a big innings but Peter Moores is showing the same loyal streak that Duncan Fletcher showed in his time as England coach. I don't think there is anyone in England that isn't hoping Strauss gets runs....