Graveney backs Thorpe in bid for Ashes

Graham Thorpe has convinced England coach Duncan Fletcher and chairman of selectors David Graveney that he has recovered sufficiently from the breakdown of his marriage to take on the Aussies this winter.

The England selectors sit down tonight to finalise their 17-strong party for the Ashes series, and the Surrey left-hander impressed Graveney and Fletcher during meetings over the weekend.

Graveney said: 'I was impressed with what Graham had to say, but it is up to the other selectors as well. We are a democracy.'

The extent to which Thorpe has refocused on his cricket after withdrawing completely from the game following the first Test against India at Lord's was revealed by Surrey coach Keith Medlycott.

He said: 'Graham has been back having proper practice in the nets for 10 days. I am in close touch with him and we will be discussing whether he will play a Championship game for us before the end of the season.'

Surrey, having clinched their third County Championship in four seasons on Saturday, have the luxury of two remaining matches into which Thorpe could be slotted without disturbing the side's team spirit or title momentum.