Gough: I'm fit enough for World Cup

12 April 2012

Darren Gough insists he is Still in good enough shape for one last hurrah at the World Cup should England come calling.

England fast bowler Gough's dream was given a lifeline this week when it was revealed that the International Cricket Council will allow alterations to the preliminary 30-man squads. The 36-year-old Yorkshireman was reported to have failed a fitness test at Loughborough and his name was the notable omission from the original party three weeks ago.

But Gough, in Australia playing beach cricket for an England veterans side, said: "I am in good condition, I have had a personal trainer for the last four months."

He added: "It is a bit of fun and the guys like a beer or two [but] since I have been here, every morning at half past six I am in the gym and after a day's play I have been back in so I am trying my best to keep myself fit and strong.

"I have probably put in more hours in the gym than anybody else who is on the England trip."

Chairman of selectors David Graveney contacted the ICC regarding the protocol from drafting outsiders into the 30 at a time when England's fast bowlers are either struggling for form or fitness.

Other players can come into the pool ahead of February 13 - the cut-off date to name the final 15 players - but only at the expense of another player.

Once the tournament begins, replacements for injuries can only come from the 30-man list.

Gough, England's most prolific bowler in one-day history with 235 victims, was irked at the way he found out about his exclusion and Graveney apologised publicly for the announcement a few days later.

"I didn't find out by text message, I found out by turning on Sky News," said Gough. "I didn't get a text message or a phone call and it hugely disappointed me. The fact that people said I was overweight by 15 pounds I found absolutely comical."

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