Caddick attacks selectors over Pattinson 'shambles'

The former England bowler Andrew Caddick has criticised the England selectors after their controversial choice of Darren Pattinson to play in the second Test.

The England coach, Peter Moores, had hoped Pattinson's use of swing would come into its own at Headingley, and more obvious candidates like Simon Jones, Steve Harmison and Matthew Hoggard were overlooked, despite the fact that the Nottinghamshire bowler had played only 11 first-class matches.

"It's quite astonishing these things are happening these days and it's quite a kick in the guts," the Somerset vice-captain said. "It doesn't say much about the system. I think it's disgusting but it just sums up the lack of commitment by the England selectors for the cause. "He [Pattinson] could end up being another one-Test wonder which is a shame for him as it's not going to do his confidence any good. It's just a shambles really that things like this are happening at this level."

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Caddick, who took 234 Test wickets, including 13 five-wicket hauls, rejected Moores' explanation that Pattinson's style was suited to the ground, especially with Hoggard ready to bowl on his home wicket.

"Why wasn't Matthew Hoggard picked?" Caddick wondered. "It beggars belief, really. I hope someone would have rung him and explained the situation but, knowing the way the situation works, I don't think they would [have] and that's the sad situation. There's no communication as far as England [are] concerned."

Pattinson's new England team-mate Andrew Flintoff, meanwhile, said he would not push for an immediate return to the No 6 berth after batting at No 7 at Headingley. "I am pleased batting at seven," he said. "The only way I will force my way up the order is by scoring runs."