The England and Wales Cricket Board have confirmed James Anderson suffered a cracked rib during England's pre-Ashes training camp in Germany but expect the paceman to be fit for the first Test on November 25.
Anderson struggled during the 5-0 whitewash Down Under four years ago but has emerged as the leader of the attack in the last couple of years and any question marks over his fitness will be seen as a major blow to England's preparations.
A short ECB statement said Anderson, 28, had sustained the injury during the team's secret five-day 'boot camp' last month but added that the Lancashire seamer would fly out with the rest of the squad on 29th October.
It continued: "It is anticipated that he will be fit and available for selection for the first Test against Australia in Brisbane."
Anderson's injury has boosted Chris Tremlett's hopes of an Ashes debut next month.
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