Alex Wharf joins Champions Trophy squad

Glamorgan's Alex Wharf has been rewarded for his instant impact in England's one-day side, by earning a call-up for next week's Champions Trophy.

Wharf, 29, grabbed a wicket with his fifth ball in international cricket at Trent Bridge on Wednesday, followed up with two more in his next two overs, and was named Man of the Match for his sparkling display.

His inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad was signed and sealed by the International Cricket Council's technical committee, after it was revealed that Kabir Ali had failed to recover from a side strain. England play their opening Champions Trophy match against Zimbabwe at Edgbaston next Friday.

South Africa and Pakistan have also had changes to their squad approved. Charl Langeveldt has been called up in place of Andre Nel, while Azhar Mahmood comes in for Shabbir Ahmed. Shabbir is likely to be out for another six weeks after being diagnosed with a cartilage tear in his knee. Mahmood, who is with Surrey at the moment, will take his place.

Andre Nel, the South African fast bowler, will also miss the tournament. Nel didn't play in the Tests on the tour to Sri Lanka and was forced to fly home after failing to recover from a back strain. He was replaced by Langeveldt, who impressed with his medium-pace, with 3 for 31, in one of the one-dayers.