Langer in race for fitness

Justin Langer is racing against time to be fit for the Australians' final warm-up game before the First Test at Edgbaston next Thursday.

Batsman Langer was hit on the wrist while fielding in the tour game against the MCC at Arundel yesterday.

The wrist is now swollen and it is doubtful whether he will even be able to hold a bat before tomorrow when the Australians take on Essex at Chelmsford.

Langer will be desperate to play following a meagre return of four runs in two innings at Arundel.

Team physiotherapist Errol Alcott decided an X-ray was unnecessary for Langer and is confident the Western Australian will be fit.

"The wrist is very swollen but it has a good range of movement," said Alcott. "He will survive.

"The swelling has actually gone down a little and he's got the colour back in his face - he was a bit pale for a while.

"It's moving very well. It's one of those impact injuries when the soft tissues get squeezed by the ball.

"It will be pretty sore today and we will have to work on it solid for him to feel comfortable."

The decision on whether Langer plays will depend on how much discomfort he feels when gripping the handle.

"I think we will have to wait until the morning of the game to see about that," added Alcott. "I am confident about it, put it that way."

Openers Michael Slater and Matthew Hayden will also search for form against Essex while Adam Gilchrist, who will captain the side, Mark Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee are all likely to return.