It has been a frustrating six months for Ashley Giles. No sooner had he cemented his place in the England side with impressive performances in Pakistan and Sri Lanka than he was sidelined by injury. He finally admitted defeat in his battle against a long-standing Achilles tendon problem after a poor performance in the first Test against Australia and underwent surgery, but the recuperation which was supposed to have him fit for the tour to India has not gone according to plan. Shortly after the operation the wound became infected, and it's been slow progress from there. He was operated on in early July but three months later, and four weeks before England leave for India, he has yet to start jogging and has not bowled a ball, even in the nets. He is aware that time is fast running out. "I'm not going to gamble," Giles said, aware that his current problems have largely been caused by playing when he should have been resting. "If I'm not right, I won't go. I have had the injury for so long I have to get it sorted out this time." Although Giles remains confident that he will be ready in time, it will be a huge risk in taking someone who is so out of practice and, because of his inactivity, lacking in the stamina which will be necessary in the trying Indian conditions. The England management must convince themselves that Giles is fit and not rely on the word of player himself. If he is ruled out then Phil Tufnell is on standby.

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