Harmison expected to be 'fully fit'

Steve Harmison will not play again this season after the England and Wales Cricket Board pulled him out of Durham's match against Yorkshire next week.

The England pace spearhead is still expected to have recovered from his back injury in time for the ICC Champions Trophy next month. However medical staff from the ECB determined that it would be an unnecessary risk for Harmison to take part in Durham's final Liverpool Victoria County Championship match of the campaign.

England chairman of selectors David Graveney said: "Stephen's withdrawal from this match will allow for a more gradual progression in his recovery programme. He will continue to work with the Durham and England medical staff as well as ECB fast bowling coach Kevin Shine, and we anticipate that he will be fully fit for the ICC Champions Trophy."

The 27-year-old paceman missed the recent NatWest Series against Pakistan because of his back complaint but was thought to be close to full fitness again.

Harmison underwent a review of his progress at Loughborough's National Cricket Centre this week which prompted the ECB decision.

England depart for the Champions Trophy on October 6 and play their first match against hosts India on October 15.