England hopeful over Swann fitness

Graeme Swann should be fit for the first Test against South Africa
12 July 2012

England are confident key spinner Graeme Swann will be fit for next week's first Investec Test against South Africa, following a cortisone injection and necessary rest for his sore bowling elbow.

The 33-year-old has an apparently chronic problem in his right elbow and has already undergone surgery on the joint in the past. But coach Andy Flower expects both Swann and seamer Tim Bresnan - also rested from the final match of England's 4-0 NatWest Series victory over Australia on Tuesday because of an elbow niggle - to be ready to face South Africa on July 19.

"Swann has a cortisone injection in his elbow - and with the combination of rest and the injection, he should be fit for the Test," said Flower.

"They have had these ongoing elbow problems, both Swann and Bresnan.

"Our medical staff believe they will be fit and available for selection for the first Test.

"But it's a strenuous exercise, being a bowler playing international cricket.

"They play all three forms of the game. So that's why Swann missed a big part of the one-day series and why we rested Bresnan on occasion."

Bresnan underwent elbow surgery too late last year, and then had to pull out of the shock Test series defeat against Pakistan in the Middle East.

As for Swann, Flower agrees his presence is a pivotal aspect of England's performance.

"Absolutely - but there will be opportunities for youngsters when we rest Swann," he said. "He can't go on forever. There'll be some opportunities for others in the international game."

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