Vaughan given say as team faces reshake

Changes are expected for the third Test against South Africa at Trent Bridge next Thursday, as England's selectors attempt to rediscover the winning formula that has been disastrously mislaid over the past two weeks. England were comprehensively outplayed in a rain-affected first Test at Edgbaston, before being routed by an innings and 92 runs at Lord's on Sunday.

Michael Vaughan, who was thrust into the spotlight by Nasser Hussain's resignation last week, has been told he will be given a say in the selection process, even though he is not officially on the panel. "I think the selectors have a meeting on Thursday," said Vaughan. "Between now and then we will try and come up with a plan of how to beat South Africa.

"I'm keen on having a team that I feel can beat South Africa," added Vaughan. "Whether we look to the future I don't know. First and foremost we have to try and put in a better performance at Trent Bridge and try and put South Africa under some pressure."

David Graveney, England's chairman of selectors, acknowledged that Vaughan had been underprepared for his role at Lord's, and he now has ten days in which to settle into the job. "Michael now has the chance to settle back and get a better understanding of the job that was presented to him," said Graveney. "I hope he has a couple of days now away from the spotlight to decide what he wants because what he wants is going to have a major bearing in our selection meeting."

Several of England's old guard will be under considerable pressure in the next few days. Darren Gough, whose spirit is willing but whose knees are weak, struggled his way to a solitary wicket in two Tests and has already announced his retirement from Test cricket. Alec Stewart was uncharacteristically scratchy behind the stumps at Lord's, and picked up a second-ball duck in his final innings at the ground, while Nasser Hussain's post-captaincy blues will be a source of some concern to the selectors.

The younger generation are hardly more secure. Anthony McGrath has looked palpably out of his depth, despite his success against Zimbabwe earlier in the season, while Steve Harmison's place will probably remain secure for the time being, if only for a lack of options. Ashley Giles has also felt the pressure in recent weeks, although his ability to make consistent runs from No. 8 will surely work in his favour. That, and his close friendship with his new captain - Vaughan will need all the support going in the next few days.

Inevitably though, with a shake-up in the offing, there is one big name rearing his head again. Graham Thorpe is fit, in form and has put his personal problems aside, and the temptation for his inclusion will be hard to resist. "If he's right in his mind and personal life then I am sure the selectors will talk about him," said Vaughan. "He's a fantastic player."