Cricket: England name unchanged squad for test

LONDON - England have named an unchanged squad for the fourth Ashes cricket test against Australia which starts at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Thursday.

Chairman of selectors David Graveney said the home side were heading for the unparalleled situation of naming the same side for all five tests in a series after "outstanding" performances left England level at 1-1 with the world champions.

"We are playing some good cricket at present and there is a positive vibe about the team which I am sure the players will be keen to take into the next test," Graveney said today.

"The last two tests have been extraordinary games which have really captured the imagination of the sporting public.

"Everybody's played their part, we've dominated sessions. They've played great cricket as a group over the last two tests."

Australia's last wicket pair held out to deny England victory at Old Trafford in the third test.

Graveney gave his full support to wicketkeeper Geraint Jones, who has been criticised for poor work behind the stumps during the series.

"I thought he responded brilliantly... he's had a tough time as far as the media are concerned," Graveney said.

Australia are yet to name their squad for the fourth test.

- REUTERS