Tremlett set to miss Test
01/24/2012 11:43:25 PM
England seamer Chris Tremlett looks certain to miss the second Test with Pakistan in Dubai with an injured back.
Skipper Andrew Strauss was hoping to have Tremlett bowling in the nest ahead of the first day of the Test on Wednesday but the 30-year-old has pulled out suffering soreness in his back and side.
Tremlett's absence is a blow to England, who are looking to bounce back from their 10-wicket loss in the first Test.
Tremlett has a Test average of 26.75 but failed to take a wicket from his 21 overs in the first Test.
His absence could pave the way for Monty Panesar's Test return if Strauss and the selectors opt to go for two spinners.
Panesar took five wickets in the final warm-up match against Pakistan's Cricket Board XI and his inclusion would see him pair up with off-spinner Graeme Swann.
Panesar's last Test appearance came against Australia in July 2009 and he will be vying with Steven Finn and Graham Onions for the last place in the bowling line-up alongside James Anderson and Stuart Broad.