England chairman of selectors David Graveney believes spinner Ashley Giles will play an integral part in the upcoming Ashes series after the Warwickshire left-armer was passed fit to take his place in the tour squad.
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Giles has not played for almost 12 months due to hip and groin problems but has fully recovered from a second hip operation and recently completed drills with the England one-day squad in India.
Graveney is elated that the 33-year-old is fit to travel to Australia after putting in a commendable performance in England's 2005 Ashes triumph.
"It's excellent news that Ashley has come through the final stage of his rehabilitation program and is available again for selection," Graveney told BBC Sport.
"He played an important role in helping England regain the Ashes in 2005 and I am sure that he will be keen to make an impact in Australia this (northern hemisphere) winter."
Giles is also encouraged by reaching his goal to be fit in time for England's defence of the traditional title and is excited about rejoining his teammates.
"It was always my goal to be fit in time for the Ashes and I am really looking forward to being part of the test squad again," he said.
Giles recently said he is in the best shape he has been for a decade and has increased his bowling workload in the nets while the coaching staff have focussed on simulating Test match conditions in training as he works to regain full match fitness.
