Morgan to make Test debut against BD

LONDON: Paul Collingwood has been ruled out of England’s two-Test series against Bangladesh with a shoulder injury. But Eoin Morgan, who played in the side captained by Collingwood that won the World Twenty20, has been called up into a 12-man Test squad for the Bangladesh series opener that starts at Lord’s on Thursday.

Meanwhile, fast-bowler Stuart Broad will also miss the series in order to undergo a “strengthening programme”. Collingwood’s absence has created room in the Test squad for 23-year-old former Ireland batsman Morgan, although South Africa-born Jonathan Trott also remains in contention.

For middle-order batsman Collingwood, a mainstay of England’s team across all three formats, a left shoulder injury sustained during the World Twenty20 requires rest. “Collingwood will undergo a period of rehabilitation for the injury,” said England national selector Geoff Miller after announcing the squad. “There’s a need for Broad to undertake a strengthening programme before a busy season and the next three weeks have been identified as the ideal period for this programme. We’ve selected an exciting squad and with the absence of Collingwood and Broad, the opportunity arises for a number of younger players to make a mark at the Test level.

“Morgan has impressed everyone since his one-day debut and he now has the opportunity to play a role in the Test team.” Andrew Strauss returns to captain the side, having been rested from the Bangladesh tour and the World Twenty20 after he opted out of international cricket’s shortest format.

Published in the Express Tribune, May 24th, 2010.