Yorkshire's England all-rounder Tim Bresnan has been ruled out of the forthcoming Test series against Pakistan beginning on January 17 after his right elbow flared up during his recent return to bowling following surgery to remove a bone fragment in November.

Bresnan will return home to allow his elbow to settle before commencing a return to bowling.

Tim Bresnan said: “I’m obviously gutted not to have an opportunity to play in the Test series but I knew that looking at my rehabilitation programme it was always going to be touch and go to get me ready for the series. I want to wish the squad all very best and the priority for me now is to get myself ready for the one day series in February.” 

Graham Onions, who travelled with the squad as bowling cover, will take Bresnan’s place in the squad.

JAMES BUTTLER