Pattinson called up as cover

The Nottinghamshire seamer, Darren Pattinson, has been drafted into the England squad ahead of the second Test against South Africa at Headingley, after James Anderson reported a stiff back during training.

Pattinson is the second addition to England's party following the call-up of Hampshire's seamer, Chris Tremlett, as cover for Ryan Sidebottom, who has also been suffering from back problems. England have yet to name their final 11, although Andrew Flintoff will start his first Test from 18 months, and has been inked into the No. 7 slot.

Pattinson, 29, was born in Grimsby but has spent most of his adult life in Australia, where he has worked as a roof-tiler. He was a late starter at first-class level, but in 2006-07 earned a surprise call-up for Victoria when the state's contracted fast bowlers were all injured.

A steady right-arm fast bowler who concentrates on accuracy and swing rather than extreme speed, he has been a revelation in his first taste of county cricket with Nottinghamshire, where he has collected 29 first-class wickets at 20.86. He had been recommended to the club's director of cricket, Mick Newell, by his Victoria and Notts team-mate, David Hussey.

"Mick knew he was taking a bit of a risk when he signed me because I was relatively unknown but I'm really pleased that I've been able to repay him by taking wickets for Notts," said Pattinson. "I felt that I was bowling better than I ever had throughout my last six months in Australia and the conditions in England have helped me to develop further.

"It's been an incredible couple of months and to have the chance to play Test cricket for England would be the ultimate honour." His call-up comes ahead of more recognised England bowlers such as Matthew Hoggard, Steve Harmison and Simon Jones.

"It's an amazing rags-to-riches story and it demonstrates that players who perform in county cricket are recognised by the England selectors," said Newell. "Darren made an excellent start to the season and his form has carried through. He seems to take everything in his stride and he has the temperament to produce consistent performances."

Pattinson earned his first taste of England recognition earlier in the month when he was named in the 30-man preliminary squad for September's Champions Trophy in Pakistan. "He's a very solid character," said Geoff Miller, the England selector. "His consistency is terrific and he's deserved that kind of notoriety."