Andrew Flintoff and Ashley Giles have both been named in England's final 15-man squad for the World Cup, despite returning home from Australia with injuries. David Graveney, England's chairman of selectors, reported that Flintoff was on his way back to full fitness after complications from his mid-year hernia surgery, while Giles had been given the go-ahead to begin training after breaking his wrist during net practice in Adelaide.

Michael Vaughan was also included, along with Craig White, who damaged his side muscles during the Boxing Day Test but is expected to recover in time to play a full part in the tournament.

"I am satisfied that the players selected in this squad represent the best mix of experience and youth that England has available to it," said Graveney in a statement on Tuesday.

"The unavailability of several key players for various reasons over recent months has given us the opportunity to bring in a number of young players into our plans. Several of these players have responded extremely well to the challenge and we have had no hesitation in including them in the squad."

Graveney added that Flintoff had been bowling at around 90 percent capacity in the nets back in Lancashire and was experiencing less pain than he had in Australia. "The indications from the ECB [England and Wales Cricket Board] medical officer are that Andrew will be fit and able to play a full part in the World Cup."

Giles, meanwhile, had bowled six overs in the nets last weekend without suffering a reaction and Graveney was satisfied with his progress. "We will be looking to have both Andrew and Ashley travel to Australia during the next few weeks to continue their rehabilitation and prove their fitness."

England have been drawn in pool A at the World Cup alongside Australia, Pakistan, India, Zimbabwe, Namibia and the Netherlands. Their first scheduled pool match is against Zimbabwe in Harare on February 13.

The Squad
Nasser Hussain (capt), James Anderson, Ian Blackwell, Andrew Caddick, Paul Collingwood, Andy Flintoff, Ashley Giles, Steve Harmison, Matthew Hoggard, Ronnie Irani, Nick Knight, Alec Stewart (wk), Marcus Trescothick, Michael Vaughan, Craig White.

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd