England's [Images] cricket team are recording "Jerusalem" -- anthem of their Ashes-winning series against Australia -- with the aim of making it a Christmas chart-topper.

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A day after England lost the first Test in their current tour of Pakistan, the team was in a Faisalabad hotel recording the song with classical singer Keedie.

The release date is still unconfirmed but it will probably be "early to mid-December" according to project manager Tony Matharu. The release will be timed to give it the best chance of being the Christmas number one.

Proceeds will be split evenly between the England and Wales Cricket Board's charity Chance to Shine, the Professional Cricket Association's charity that aids former players who have fallen on hard times, and the Pakistan earthquake appeal.

"We want it to sell as many copies as possible and we feel a date around that time will give us the best chance to achieve this," said Matharu, who revealed that the song was his concept.

It becomes the latest in a not entirely glorious history of songs by sporting stars.

England's 2003 World Cup-winning rugby team recorded Swing Low to some acclaim but former England footballers Chris Waddle and Glenn Hoddle are still ridiculed for their dated hairstyles and rigid dance moves during the video of their 1980s release Diamond Lights.

The cricketers however can count on the lingering glow of the northern Summer's Ashes success to help sales.

"Discussions about the recording started in September but with the team away and with the World XI matches in Australia beforehand, this was the only period where all the team could be together and with a gap in their playing schedule," Matharu said.

"The earthquake hadn't happened when we started talking, but as a result of the tragedy in Pakistan it felt appropriate and right that we should contribute funds to that also."