Anderson suffers rib injury

England's pace spearhead James Anderson is set to be fit for the opening Ashes Test despite cracking a rib during the team's recent boot camp.

The England squad took part in a five-day bonding camp in the Germany following the conclusion of their series against Pakistan two weeks ago and some of the drills included boxing sessions between team-mates.

Anderson, though, took a heavy blow to the ribs during one of the sessions - cracking a rib in a process

And although initial reports suggested this would make him a doubt for the first two Ashes Tests which start on November 25 in Brisbane and December 3 in the Adelaide respectively, the ECB has allayed the fears.

A statement read: "The ECB can confirm James Anderson sustained a cracked rib during England's recent preparation camp in Germany.

"Anderson is continuing his training programme ahead of the Ashes tour and will fly out to Australia with England's Test squad on October 29.

"It is anticipated that he will be fit and available for selection for the first Test match against Australia in Brisbane."