Graveney defends same-again England

David Graveney today insisted it would have been wrong to "rip up the script" and make changes to the England squad for the second npower Test against Australia.

Following their comprehensive 239-run defeat at Lord's, the selectors had been urged in some quarters to bring in new blood.

But they have resisted the call and named an unchanged 12-man squad for the Test at Edgbaston, beginning on Thursday.

Graveney, the chairman of selectors, insisted the beaten players deserved another chance.

"If you look at the bigger picture, we have managed to get where we are, which is the second-ranked team in the world, by trying to be as consistent as we possibly can with selection," he told BBC Five Live's Sportsweek programme.

"Obviously there has been a lot of debate about certain players being under pressure within the team and the outstanding form of Paul Collingwood.

"But the selectors felt that we wanted to stick with the same 12.

"We did not want to add other people. That would have sent a mixed message to people within that existing team.

"Basically we are saying to the guys 'We back you' and build up their confidence. 'Go out there and relax'.

"The atmosphere at Lord's was electric, I am sure Birmingham will be the same."

Durham's Collingwood was perhaps the most unlucky of England hopefuls to have missed out on a call-up after a sensational seven days with the bat for his county.

Graveney revealed on Sky Sports News: "I spoke to him yesterday. I didn't want to drag him out for another 24 hours.

"I know 'Colly' very well. He doesn't want to be branded a one-day player - he wants to play Test cricket.

"You can't do any more than he's done, to score three hundreds in a week. He obviously is disappointed but I think deep down he didn't really expect to be in the 12."