Sport

Scott Borthwick and James Tredwell called up by England

Inexperienced duo get their Ashes chance after sudden retirement of Graeme Swann

England have added Durham leg-spinner Scott Borthwick (pictured) and Kent off-spinner James Tredwell to their squad for the St Stephens’ Day Test against Australia in Melbourne. Photograph: Nigel French/PA Wire
England have added Durham leg-spinner Scott Borthwick (pictured) and Kent off-spinner James Tredwell to their squad for the St Stephens’ Day Test against Australia in Melbourne. Photograph: Nigel French/PA Wire
Mon Dec 23 2013 - 12:06

England have called up spinners Scott Borthwick and James Tredwell to their Ashes Test squad following the retirement of Graeme Swann.

Uncapped leg-spinner Borthwick will be available, alongside slow left-armer Monty Panesar, for the St Stephen's Day Test in Melbourne.

Tredwell, who has played just one Test - more than three years ago in Bangladesh - will also report to Melbourne but not in time to figure in the fourth Test.

England have already lost the Ashes, conceding an unassailable 3-0 lead to their hosts after a third successive wide-margin defeat in Perth last week.

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It is highly unlikely that two spinners would be considered at the MCG, but possible for the final Test in Sydney.

An England and Wales Cricket Board press release read: "Borthwick will arrive into Melbourne later today, will train with England...and will be available for selection for the (fourth) Test, beginning on Boxing Day.

“Tredwell will arrive in Melbourne during the fourth Test and will be available for selection for the final Test in Sydney beginning on January 3rd.”

Panesar remains the likeliest replacement for Swann in the first instance, for the final two matches of what has been a tough series for England.