Nottinghamshire batsmen James Taylor has been given special dispensation to play for Sussex against Australia.
The England and Wales Cricket Board are weighing up their options as doubts surround the fitness of Kevin Pietersen ahead of the third Ashes Test and put in a request for Taylor to play against the tourists at Hove.
Pietersen suffered a calf injury in the second Test at Lords and Taylor is expected to be named in the squad for the Old Trafford Test as cover for him.
An ECB statement read: “Following discussions between the England management and Nottinghamshire CCC, Nottinghamshire CCC has allowed batsman James Taylor to play for Sussex in the three day game against Australia starting this Friday.”
England team director Andy Flower is also delighted that Taylor has been given the all clear to play and believes the experience will do him good.
“We would like to thank Nottinghamshire CCC and Sussex CCC for their support and understanding in allowing James Taylor to play,” Flower said.
“This will provide James with a valuable opportunity to play in a longer format of the game while we consider our options ahead of the third Investec Ashes Test next week.
“Kevin Pietersen is continuing his recovery from a calf strain and a decision about his availability for the Test will made nearer the time.”
Taylor made his Test debut against South Africa last year when he shared a 147-run partnership with Pietersen and could get another chance to shine next week if his team-mate is ruled out.
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