Cork's injury lends support to Botham's idea

Dominic Cork is struggling to regain full fitness before the start of the new season.

The England all-rounder was forced out of the England tours to Pakistan and Sri Lanka with a back injury, and has now revealed that he may not have recovered in time to lead Derbyshire in their early season games.

Cork is expected to have an important role to play in the series against Pakistan and Australia this summer and his continued lay-off will come as a blow to the England management.

The news comes amid calls from Ian Botham for some England players to miss the entire county season in order to preserve them for their international commitments.

"I think there is a case for the bowlers to be taken completely out of the county cricket circuit, particularly people like Darren Gough," Botham told Sky Sports.

"He has bowled his heart out for England all through the winter where the wickets have not been that helpful for him - he and Andy Caddick have done extremely well.

"I think those guys should be rested until they feel that they need a game before the Pakistan series. They need to be rested and wrapped in cotton wool.

"At the end of the day, think how much pleasure people have got in the last year or so watching England performing again and winning. It means a lot to the people at home."