Kirtley replaces Gough for Champions Trophy

James Kirtley replaced injured fast bowler Darren Gough in England's squad on Friday for the ICC Champions Trophy.

Gough was ruled out of next month's limited-overs event in Sri Lanka after being forced to undergo more surgery on a long-term knee problem.

The 27-year-old Kirtley has had a controversial start to his international career. He was reported for a suspect action last year in Zimbabwe after making his debut in the series in Harare but is back playing with his county side Sussex after remedial work.

He has played in seven one-day international, four of them in a triangular series against India and Sri Lanka in June and July, before breaking a bone in his right hand during net practice.

A skiddy bowler who concentrates on control rather than out-and-out pace, he has taken six wickets at 50.83. He has not played a test.

England chairman of selectors David Graveney said: "James... now has a further opportunity to press his claims for a regular place in the squad ahead of the one-day series in Australia and the World Cup.

"James has good pace, can bowl well at the 'death' in one-day cricket and is an excellent all-round fielder."

Mail Cricket Editor