Pattinson earns surprise call-up

Darren Pattinson has been added to England's squad for the second npower Test

England have called up Darren Pattinson as further bowling cover for the second npower Test against South Africa at Headingley Carnegie tomorrow.

Nottinghamshire’s Pattinson, a former roof tiler who was born in Grimsby but raised in Australia, joins up with the squad due to back soreness felt by James Anderson.

Hampshire pace bowler Chris Tremlett had already been summoned this morning following Ryan Sidebottom’s prolonged back niggles.

An England spokesman said: “Jimmy at this stage is expected to play and it really is precautionary.

“It is on the very off-chance that Jimmy and Ryan wake up tomorrow and have deteriorated.”

Pattinson, 30, was a late developer with Victoria who only made his first-class debut in 2006-07.

Having been recommended to Nottinghamshire director of cricket Mick Newell by their overseas player David Hussey, Pattinson has made a strong impression at Trent Bridge and was a surprise inclusion in England’s 30-man ICC Champions Trophy squad.

Pattinson’s ability to swing the ball at pace has earned 29 first-class wickets in six appearances for his county this summer.

He said: “Mick Newell knew he was taking a bit of a risk when he signed me because I was relatively unknown but I’m really pleased that I’ve been able to repay him by taking wickets for Notts.

“I felt that I was bowling better than I ever had throughout my last six months in Australia and the conditions in England have helped me to develop further.

“It’s been an incredible couple of months and to have the chance to play Test cricket for England would be the ultimate honour.”

Newell added: “It’s an amazing rags-to-riches story and it demonstrates that players who perform in county cricket are recognised by the England selectors.

“Darren made an excellent start to the season and his form has carried through. He seems to take everything in his stride and he has the temperament to produce consistent performances.”