Cricket: Steven Finn, Jake Ball out of England squad

Steven Finn and Jake Ball have been released from England's squad to face Pakistan in the second Test at Old Trafford, Alastair Cook has confirmed.

The two seamers were originally included in the 14-man party for the match, which begins on Friday, but will play no part as England look to level the series following their 75-run defeat at Lord's.

Finn looked out of sorts in returning match figures of 0-128 on his home ground, while Ball fared slightly better on debut, claiming 1-51 and 0-37.

The announcement means leggie Adil Rashid remains in the 12-man squad, with the England selectors facing a decision – if Rashid is picked in the XI – over whether to include him as a replacement for Moeen Ali or as a second spinner at a venue that traditionally favours slow bowling.

Meanwhile, premier seamer James Anderson is expected to return, as is all-rounder Ben Stokes as England juggle their options.

"We're going to name a 12 – Steven Finn and Bally are missing out," Cook said on Thursday.

"That means, obviously, Ben Stokes and Jimmy Anderson are back in and Adil’s going to be in the 12, just depending on what happens to that wicket by tomorrow."