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Adil Rashid selection shows England's intent, says Ashley Giles

SCARBOROUGH, ENGLAND - JULY 22: Adil Rashid of Yorkshire appeals during day four of the LV County Championship division One match between Yorkshire and Mid
Image: Adil Rashid: Could make Test debut against Australia in Cardiff

Ashley Giles has backed England’s decision to select leg-spinner Adil Rashid ahead of the Investec Ashes series with Australia, claiming it "shows intent from the England management".

Rashid was included in Trevor Bayliss' first squad as head coach despite not being part of England's training camp in Spain last month.

The 27-year-old has taken 15 wickets in three matches in the county championship for Yorkshire and Giles, the former England limited overs head coach, said Rashid's inclusion offers more options ahead of the first Test in Cardiff.

Speaking to Sky Sports News HQ, he said: "The Australian team looks a really strong unit but the way England have played recently, I think everybody has more hope than they had a few months ago.

"It's an interesting selection. Whether they play two, I'm not sure but it certainly shows some intent from the England management to pick a leg-spinner.

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Adil Rashid gives his thoughts on being included in the England squad ahead of the 1st Ashes test on July 8.

"Adil is a very good cricketer, a good all-round cricketer and also a mature cricketer. He's been around a while and had some success with Yorkshire. It certainly gives England lots of options."

Giles also backed the decision to select Steven Finn in the bowling attack, despite the Middlesex paceman not playing Test cricket since July 2013.

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"Finn has had a rough couple of years and it's great to see him back involved," added Giles. "When he's at his best, he's a fantastic bowler and if he is at his best, then England stand a much better chance of winning those Ashes back."

The first Investec Ashes Test is live from Cardiff on our dedicated Sky Sports Ashes channel from Wednesday July 8.

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