Thigh strain rules Finn out of first Test

England captain Alastair Cook has confirmed that fast bowler Steven Finn has been ruled out of the first Test match against India at Ahmedabad, which gets under way on Thursday, by a thigh strain.

Cook confirmed the news, which had been expected after he failed to take part in training session, in a press conference in Ahmedabad.

"Steven will not be available for tomorrow's Test. It would be too big a risk," the Telegraph quoted Cook, as saying.

England is already contemplating a chance on Stuart Broad's fitness as he has been troubled by a bruised heel.

Cook did not confirm who would replace Finn at the Sarwar Patel Stadium but seamer Tim Bresnan is the favourite to get the nod.

Fellow fast bowler Graham Onions and spinner Monty Panesar would be alternatives to Bresnan.