England stick with Hussain

Hussain has played 95 Tests for England

England have resisted tinkering too much with their winning squad for the first Test against New Zealand, which starts at Lord's on Thursday.

Former captain Nasser Hussain retains his place despite calls from England great Ian Botham for him to be replaced by Andrew Strauss.

Spinner Gareth Batty is the only player dropped from the squad which beat the West Indies 3-0.

David Graveney told the BBC: "Competition for places is intense."

Hussain has played 95 Tests for England and made it known when he stood down from the captaincy, he wanted to reach 100 Test matches.

I have the greatest respect for Beefy's views but in this case, regarding Nasser, I personally don't agree with him David Graveney

He signalled his form with a ton for Essex against Glamorgan in the County Championship on Saturday.

The make-up of the final XI will be dependent on the weather forecast.

And England could opt for four seamers and all-rounder Paul Collingwood instead of spinner Ashley Giles.

Lancashire quick James Anderson did his chances of a starting place no harm, taking 10 wickets against Worcestershire.

Chairman of selectors Graveney said: "I have the greatest respect for Beefy's views but in this case, regarding Nasser, I personally don't agree with him.

"The bowlers rightly took the accolades in the West Indies.

I suppose Strauss will feel disappointed, but as Nasser played well this weekend he should play From Michael Hock Have your say on TMS

"But the middle-order batsmen, when the game was in the balance, showed a level of ability and courage which was outstanding, and Nasser was a part of that."

Graveney said Collingwood and Strauss' times would come.

He added: "We have got to win today but also plan for tomorrow.

"There is no doubt Strauss and Collingwood were the two main contenders.

"Collingwood played really well in Sri Lanka and was probably unlucky not to play subsequent to that.

"I think Andrew Strauss has got a huge future for England, as has Paul Collingwood.

"They are two of the people who will be a part of the future."

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England squad: Michael Vaughan (capt.), Marcus Trescothick, Mark Butcher, Nasser Hussain, Graham Thorpe, Paul Collingwood, Andrew Flintoff, Geraint Jones (wkt), Ashley Giles, Simon Jones, Matthew Hoggard, Steve Harmison, James Anderson.