Lanky paceman Chris Tremlett said on Friday he did not expect to be selected to play in the first Test against Pakistan starting in Dubai next week due to the nature of the pitch. The 30-year-old fast, who played the last of his ten Tests against India in July last year, took two wickets in each innings during England’s 100-run win over Pakistan Cricket Board XI here on Friday. But with a slow, spin track expected for Tuesday’s opener against Pakistan, England will be keen on playing two spinners — Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar.
The latter increased his chances of playing by taking eight wickets in the second tour match. “The competition (for places) is tight, and you have to be on the ball all the time. I guess I’m not expecting to play, but just waiting to see what happens,” said Tremlett, who overcame back trouble to get a place on the tour. Tremlett said England will assess the conditions before deciding on the final eleven for the Test. “We’ll assess conditions when we get to the stadium. All I can do is put my name in the hat. I’m back fit and hope I will get selected,” he said.
