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Stiff back troubles Sidebottom ahead of final day

14/07/2008

England pace bowler Ryan Sidebottom is facing a frustrating day in the field on the final day of the Test match against South Africa at Lord's.

The seamer is struggling with a stiff back and captain Michael Vaughan may limit the player in the spells he is able to bowl, despite the hosts needing to make use of every attacking option available.

South Africa will resume on 242-1, still 104 runs behind England but with a very real chance of saving the Test despite trailing by 346 after the first innings.

In his spells late on the third day and throughout yesterday, Sidebottom bowled 18 wicketless overs.

And although he was economical, conceding only 23 runs and bowling six maidens, Sidebottom looked short of his best and was finding little movement off the seam.

After play had finished, England bowling coach Ottis Gibson confirmed the injury, but described it as "nothing too serious".

"He still did a great job," Gibson told the BBC, before confirming Sidebottom would continue to play his part as the hosts go looking for the nine wickets that could see them take a 1-0 lead in the four-match Test series against the Proteas.

"He's not whinged about it, he's gone out on the field and bowled brilliantly without any luck.

"If Michael Vaughan says 'Siddy, you're on,' he'll come in."