England have dismissed any injury concerns surrounding skipper Alastair Cook, claiming the star opener will be good to go for this summer’s Ashes series.
Cook sat out of England’s practice game at Floreat Oval on Tuesday to receive treatment on his back.
Stuart Broad was also held back from the low-key hit-out, and the star pair are considered unlikely starters for the three-day tour match against a WA Chairman’s XI, starting at the WACA Ground on Thursday.
Cook averaged 127 during his last Test series in Australia, and his composure at the top of the order will be crucial to England’s chances of securing a fourth straight Ashes triumph.
Australian skipper Michael Clarke is also battling a back complaint, but Cook’s issue isn’t nearly as bad.
“I’m sure he’ll be fine,” veteran batsman Ian Bell said.
“He’s had the odd little niggle with the back, which I suppose we all have certain areas we have to keep working on.
“Obviously a long flight isn’t always easy. I’m sure he’ll be right in the next week or so.
“I would expect them both to be pretty good really soon.”
The issue of walking is set to be a hot topic this summer after Broad infamously stood his ground despite nicking a ball to slip during the last Ashes series in England.
Bell hoped the controversy over whether players walked or not wouldn’t hog the headlines.
“I think we’ve all been guilty of nicking one and not walking at certain times of our career,” Bell said.
“You get rough decisions sometimes, and then you might get away with one.
“That’s the beauty of the game at times. It’s swings and roundabouts.
“Everyone’s entitled to their opinion and everyone has the right to do what they want to do.
“If they want to wait for the umpire to make the decision, then you are in your right to do that.”
Bell played a key role in England’s 3-1 series triumph over Australia earlier this year, scoring three centuries to end up with an average of 62.4.
The 31-year-old said the team was fitter than ever and hungry for more Ashes success.