Yorkshire's Bradford-born captain Anthony McGrath has received a dramatic call-up into the England squad for Thursday's first Test against Zimbabwe at Lord's.
The 27-year-old batsman was breakfasting in the Yorkshire team hotel in Northampton this morning when he answered his mobile phone to find England chairman of selectors David Graveney on the line.
To McGrath's astonishment, Graveney told him that he had been included in the party of 13 as a possible replacement for all-rounder Andy Flintoff, who is doubtful because of an injury scare.
"I could hardly believe the news I was hearing when I answered by mobile," said a stunned McGrath. "It came right out of the blue and it was the last thing on my mind at that moment. I am absolutely delighted because it shows that I am very much in the England selectors' thoughts and even if I don't play on Thursday it is still a big step in the right direction."
McGrath will still lead Yorkshire Phoenix in their match against Leicestershire Foxes at Grace Road tomorrow and will report to the England camp on Monday morning.
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