Hoggard and Collingwood in Test XII

The dozen names, which also include Yorkshire swing bowler Matthew Hoggard, provide the party for the first two of three Tests against the Black Caps.

Collingwood, 31, was treated for a sore right shoulder in the aftermath of Durham's defeat to Lancashire at Old Trafford, a match which saw Andrew Flintoff's injury jinx strike again.

Although there is some doubt as to Collingwood's availability, however, the new-look selection panel have declined to announce an official standby player.

"Despite being faced with some injury concerns, we've named what we think is an extremely strong England Test squad," said national selector Geoff Miller.

"Paul Collingwood received treatment to his right shoulder on Friday and we now need to see how he responds to that treatment before we have a definitive idea of his availability for the first npower Test.

"At this stage, it's too early to say whether he will definitely play as he will be reassessed in the lead up to Thursday.

"I know Paul and the England medical team will be doing everything to ensure he's given the best chance of taking his place in the side but should he not be fit to play we have options available."

All the signs pointed to England recalling all-rounder Flintoff at the earliest opportunity, only for a side strain to sideline him for a fortnight.

"Andrew Flintoff was obviously unavailable for selection, which is a shame for Andrew and for England, but I know he'll continue to work hard with the Lancashire medical team and be back in contention in due course," added Miller.

England have chosen the XI which came back from 1-0 down to win the Test series in New Zealand in March plus Hoggard, who was axed for those two final matches, along with pace bowler Steve Harmison.

"Clearly, there is very healthy competition for places in this Test side, which can only be good for England," said Miller. "The selection of this squad maintains a position of continuity from the winter following a series win against New Zealand."

FULL ENGLAND SQUAD: MP Vaughan (Yorkshire, capt), AN Cook (Essex), AJ Strauss (Middlesex), KP Pietersen (Hampshire), IR Bell (Warwickshire), PD Collingwood (Durham), TR Ambrose (Warwickshire, wkt), SCJ Broad (Nottinghamshire), RJ Sidebottom (Nottinghamshire), MS Panesar (Northamptonshire), JM Anderson (Lancashire), MJ Hoggard (Yorkshire).