Anderson gets fitness boost ahead of Ashes finale

England pace bowler James Anderson could feature in the fifth Ashes Test against Australia after returning to practise on Monday.

Anderson, England's all-time leading Test wicket-taker, suffered a side strain on the second day of the third Test at Edgbaston and was immediately ruled out of the fourth Test, in which the hosts secured the Ashes.

The 33-year-old will be assessed on Tuesday and Wednesday before a decision is taken over his potential participation at The Oval.

The England camp has made no secret of its ambition to win the fifth and final Test, which begins on Thursday, to ensure a 4-1 series victory and continue the progress made since a dismal World Cup campaign.

Anderson, who has taken 10 wickets in the series so far, said at the time of the injury: "It's a bit sore, I felt something on one of the deliveries.

"It could be a number of things. It was on my 33rd birthday, after 12 years of professional cricket - that might have something to do with it.

"Injuries happen to fast bowlers. I've been very fortunate in the last few years that I've not had many so you've just got to take it on the chin. Hopefully I can come back stronger."
Source: AFP