Englishmen arrive in Kolkata sans spin expert Mushtaq

Having squared the series 1-1 with a convincing win over India at Mumbai, a relaxed and buoyant England team arrived here yesterday for the third Test to be played at the iconic Eden Gardens from December 5.

The England team led by Alastair Cook, who cracked back to back hundreds in the first two Tests, flew into the eastern metropolis by a chartered flight and checked into a five star hotel amid stringent security.

Right: England ace spinner Monty Panesar and star batsman Kevin Pietersen arrive at Kolkata yesterday. Pic/Ajay Roy.

Spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed, however, did not come with the squad. "He will be coming today or tomorrow," said a team source. The England players would have a rest day today before having their maiden training session at the Eden Gardens on Sunday. The Indian players are yet to make it to the city.

Meanwhile, a six-member team from the Pakistan Cricket Board were expected to arrive on Sunday for a recce of the facilities here ahead of the side's ODI against India at the Eden Gardens on Jan 3.