The fast medium-pace bowler said he was "highly delighted and very proud" after winning an England recall after more than 15 months in the international wilderness.

Cork played only six first-class matches in 1997 following a hernia operation, and his last Test match appearance was the victory against New Zealand in Christchurch in February last year.

But during his career to date he has taken 74 wickets in his 19 Tests, including a memorable seven for 43 on his debut in 1995 against the West Indies at Lord's and a hat-trick during the same series.

The 26-year-old perhaps clinched his Test return by making 102 against Sussex last week and then taking five for 72 against Leicestershire on Friday.

The Yorkshire fast bowler, Darren Gough, who missed last winter's tour of the West Indies because of injury, is recalled along with Kent all-rounder Mark Ealham.

Robert Croft is selected as England's sole specialist spinner, with Phil Tufnell, Andy Caddick and Jack Russell all dropped from the side beaten in Antigua in March.

Surrey left-hander Mark Butcher has beaten off competition from Darren Maddy, Nick Knight and Steve James to open the innings with former England skipper Mike Atherton.

Nasser Hussain will bat at number three, with new captain Alec Stewart dropping to four and also keeping wicket.

England's selectors will make a final decision on their bowling attack after studying the Edgbaston pitch on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The England team: