He bruised his hip against Australia A and was still in pain after a full practice session Wednesday.

England's management are giving Crawley as long as possible to prove his fitness otherwise he is expected to be replaced by Robert Key.

"He's not looking too good," confirmed coach Duncan Fletcher.

"He was uncomfortable yesterday and he noticed that after he practised it got worse and he struggled again in the nets as soon as he tried to apply any pressure on to that leg.

"He's done well for us, he's batting really well for us, he was not out twice in Hobart and he batted well during the summer for us," said Fletcher.

"He's an experienced campaigner for us which is good, he plays spin very well, which is important, and it's not easy to replace that experience."

Meanwhile, Ashley Giles, who has been sidelined for the next six weeks after having his left wrist fractured while facing Steve Harmison in the nets, is due to fly home with a view to returning for the final two Tests over Christmas and New Year.

The absence of Giles has given an unexpected Test recall to Richard Dawson, who will be England's only specialist slow bowler until the selectors decide whether a further replacement will be flown out.

Australia will not name their line-up until shortly before the start of the Test to give Jason Gillespie an extra day's rest.