London: England announced on Wednesday that it had released Essex all-rounder Ronnie Irani from the squad for the final Test against India at The Oval starting on Thursday.

Irani only made his return to competitive action on Sunday following an operation on his right knee but claimed on Tuesday he was fit enough to withstand the Test.

But after looking at the wicket England has decided to allow his return to Essex and feature in its county championship match against Middlesex at Chelmsford.

Irani's release increases the chances of Derbyshire captain Dominic Cork making the starting line-up having been doubtful himself after sustaining an injury to his little finger in the warm-up to the previous Test at Headingley.

Copyright AFP 2001

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