England v Pakistan: Alastair Cook voted to select James Anderson for Test but was overruled

ALASTAIR COOK wanted James Anderson in his Test squad — but was overruled by selectors.

Captain Cook pushed for the bowler to be included for England so he could make a late decision on his fitness to face Pakistan at Lord’s today.

Anderson, the world’s No 1 ranked Test bowler, was furious and baffled at his omission from the 12-man squad, despite not playing for a month with a stress fracture of the right shoulder.

He has trained for the past two days and bowled at close to his full pace. Head coach Trevor Bayliss supported Cook but was outvoted as England decided not to risk their main man.

It should lead to medical reports being less conservative and worded differently in the future, with greater emphasis on players having a chance to prove their fitness.

Cook said: “The medical people are asked and I imagine they err on the safety side. When you’re responsible for players’ welfare, it must be really tough.

“Yes, he’s really close but not quite at full pace and there would be a risk of going into a five-day game with that injury.

“There are three more Tests and he should be fit for Old Trafford.”

Notts ace Jake Ball makes his debut in Anderson’s place.