Nottinghamshire batsman James Taylor has been named in England’s 14-man squad for the third Investec Ashes Test to be held at Old Trafford this Thursday. 

Taylor, who is currently 64 not out for Sussex in their warm up match against Australia this weekend, has been included as cover for Kevin Pietersen, who is currently an injury doubt.

The 24-year-old has been in fine form for Nottinghamshire in all three formats, the highlight an unbeaten 204 against Sussex in the LV= County Championship earlier in the season.

Also included in the squad are Surrey’s Chris Tremlett and Sussex spinner Monty Panesar.

England currently lead the five match Investec Ashes series 2-0 following a 14 run victory at Trent Bridge and a 347 run victory at Lord’s.

National selector, Geoff Miller, said: “The players worked hard at Trent Bridge and Lord’s to get into a very good position in this Investec Ashes Series but will be fully aware that there is still a great deal of cricket left in the series.

“The players have had some time this week to recover following back to back Tests and an opportunity to work on aspects of their game and they will arrive in Manchester determined to build on their performances over the last two Tests.

Miller added: “Kevin Pietersen is continuing his recovery from a calf strain and he will be assessed by the medical team closer to the start of the Test and we have therefore included an extra batsman in James Taylor who has been in good form for Nottinghamshire this season.

“Chris Tremlett has worked hard to regain fitness and form following a couple of injuries and his performances for Surrey this season have been very encouraging.

“Including an additional spinner in Monty Panesar who has plenty of international experience provides Alastair Cook and Andy Flower with a number of options.”

England squad:

Alastair Cook (Essex) (Capt)

James Anderson (Lancashire)

Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire)

Ian Bell (Warwickshire)

Tim Bresnan (Yorkshire)

Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire)

Monty Panesar (Sussex)

Kevin Pietersen (Surrey)

Matt Prior (Sussex)

Joe Root (Yorkshire)

Graeme Swann (Nottinghamshire)

James Taylor (Nottinghamshire)

Chris Tremlett (Surrey)

Jonathan Trott (Warwickshire)