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Cricket

Swann added to England squad

19/11/2008

Spinner Graeme Swann has been added to England's matchday squad for the third one-day international against India in Kanpur.

The inclusion of Swann, who will provide an additional spin bowling option for captain Kevin Pietersen, comes after doubts have been raised over fellow bowler Ryan Sidebottom and all-rounder Ravi Bopara.

The Nottinghamshire seamer has been suffering with a series of niggling injuries since arriving on the subcontinent.

And his latest complaint - discomfort in his lower back - has seen him sent for a scan yesterday, although results remain inconclusive and he will be monitored in the lead-up to tomorrow's match.

Meanwhile Essex star Bopara was unable to train with the rest of the squad on Wednesday because of an upset stomach and is considered a doubt for the third game of the series.

In the first two one-dayers in India, which have both ended in comprehensive defeats for the tourists, England captain Pietersen has used himself and all-rounder Samit Patel as the spin options.

However, if Swann plays Pietersen will hope he can provide a more focused attack against the Indian batsmen, who have had things mostly their own way in the series so far - scoring 679 runs across the two matches.