Yorkshire's Adil Rashid retained in England squad for Old Trafford test against Pakistan

ADIL RASHID saw his chances of playing in a first test on home soil enhanced after being retained in England's squad for tomorrow's clash with pakistan at Old Trafford.

By The Newsroom

Published 21st Jul 2016, 13:14 BST

Updated 25th Aug 2016, 18:36 BST

Yorkshire and England's Adil Rashid delivers the ball against Pakistan in Dubai last October. Picture: AP/Kamran Jebreili.

Alastair Cook announced that England pace pair Steven Finn and Jake Ball will miss the second Test which starts on Friday, while leaving themselves the option of choosing leg-spinning all-rounder Rashid as they seek to battle back after losing by 75 runs at Lord’s.

The hosts still appear more likely, though, to name incumbent spinner Moeen Ali in their final XI, however, alongside a four-man pace attack which is set to include James Anderson and all-rounder Ben Stokes - both returning from injury.

“We’re going to name a 12 - Steven Finn and Bally are missing out.,” said England captain Cook at his preview press conference.

“That means, obviously, Ben Stokes and Jimmy Anderson are back in - and Adil’s going to be in the 12, just depending on what happens to that wicket by tomorrow.”