Jones rated 50-50 for Pakistan tour

Simon Jones' chances of playing against Pakistan are only 50-50, says the England physiotherapist Kirk Russell. Jones missed the final Ashes Test at The Oval after developing a bone spur on his right ankle, and had been a key component in England's bowling attack all summer. With his ability to swing the new and old ball, conventionally and with reverse swing, the dry and dusty pitches of Pakistan ought to suit his style of bowling.

But he continues to be troubled with his ankle injury, and is due to go for a scan on Friday. Speaking to The Sunday Times, Russell conceded the Welshman is struggling: "It is very much 50-50 with him," he said. "We have an England camp on October 17 and 18 at Loughborough; he needs to be bowling then for him to be declared fit to tour Pakistan.

"If things continue to progress well, we will look to increase the amount of weight the ankle is bearing before Simon starts running again."