Anderson on course for Ashes despite injury

England pace bowler James Anderson is expected to be fit for the Ashes showdown against Australia later this year despite suffering a cracked rib.

Anderson reportedly sustained the rib injury while boxing during a recent England training camp in Germany and it was feared the problem may not have cleared up in time for the opening two Tests in Brisbane and Adelaide.

England's defence of the Ashes begins on November 25 and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) are confident the 28-year-old will be ready for the first Test. An ECB statement read: "ECB can confirm James Anderson sustained a cracked rib during England's recent preparation camp in Germany."