LONDON (TIP): Tim Bresnan has been ruled out of the remainder of the international season with a stress fracture in his lower back. His absence creates a space in England’s bowling attack for the fifth Investec Ashes Test, which begins on August 21. Bresnan was preferred to Steven Finn for the second Test at Lord’s and has performed well in the series with 10 wickets and two crucial contributions in the closelyfought fourth Test at Chester-le- Street.

Bresnan made 45 in England’s second-innings to boost his side’s lead before making a breakthrough with the wicket of David Warner when Australia were on course to chase 299 for victory. England went on to win comfortably and clinch the series. But now Bresnan will be unable to help England attempt to win their fourth Test of the series at The Oval. Bresnan will begin a recovery and rehabilitation programme and a date for his return to cricket will be determined in due course.

The injury is the latest setback for Bresnan who needed elbow surgery for the second time in February which ruled him out of England’s tour of New Zealand. His absence is a blow to England’s one-day plans. He has been a feature in limited-overs cricket and helped England reach the final of the Champions Trophy in June. England take on Australia in two T20s on August 29 and 31 before a five-match ODI series starting on September 6.

Before then, England will need to draft another bowler into their attack for The Oval Test match. Finn was selected for the first Test at Trent Bridge but, having been left out for the Lord’s Test, has not featured in England’s squad for the third or fourth Tests. Chris Tremlett was included in the 13 for Old Trafford and Durham without being included in the XI but could get an opportunity on his home ground.