Test specialists are told to stay on their toes

13 April 2012

England's homeward bound Test specialists are under strict instructions to stay fighting fit for a far tougher assignment in Sri Lanka.

Key batsmen Graham Thorpe, Nasser Hussain and Mark Butcher, plus fast bowler Matthew Hoggard, left here today after playing their part in a 2-0 victory over Bangladesh.

But there is no question of them putting their feet up for a fortnight before flying back into the heat and humidity of Sri Lanka for three Tests that will challenge England's skill and stamina to the full.

"It's important they have a break and come back really fresh," said coach Duncan Fletcher, whose thoughts will now turn to six one-day internationals.

"But we've stressed they must make sure they maintain their fitness levels because we can't let what has happened here go to waste. Everything has been put in place in terms of fitness plans and they know what they've got to do."

England's aim of becoming the best team in the world, at both Test and one-day cricket, by 2007 may not be achievable but, following Michael Vaughan's appointment as captain, there is an equally determined attempt to turn themselves into the fittest side - and that is a title within their reach.

"The whole attitude of everyone on this trip has given me a lot of satisfaction," Fletcher said. "I don't think I've been with a side that has put in as much as they have.

"This is the fittest England side I've had but there's still some work to be done."

While Vaughan and seven other members of the Test squad seek to stay in top shape through playing three one-dayers against Bangladesh followed by another three in Sri Lanka, their absent colleagues must keep ticking over at home.

Hoggard will do some indoor net bowling back at home, hopefully with Steve Harmison for company. The Durham paceman, who returned home injured after the First Test, is due to have a scan on his damaged back today.

As for Thorpe, Hussain and Butcher - England's middle order of thirty-somethings - detailed plans have been drawn up to help them stay in top shape. That even means the occasional sauna or steam room session.

Fletcher agrees that seven changes between Test and one-day squads is probably four or five too many. "We are trying to work towards making sure we can have one squad for both forms of game," he said.

"Something similar to what Australia have is the best way - a group of 18 to 20 players. I think if you play Test cricket you should be able to play one-day cricket and vice versa."

The onus is on members of the limited overs squad to start pushing to play Test cricket on a regular basis.

Surrey all-rounder Rikki Clarke has made a promising start in that direction

"At the moment I think Clarke will be a batting all-rounder very similar to Andrew Flintoff," Fletcher said. "But I was impressed with the way he increased his bowling speed during the Second Test and was very disciplined at that pace."

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