England's Anderson taken to hospital

GROS ISLET, St Lucia, Mar 14 (Reuters) England pace bowler James Anderson has been taken to hospital with a suspected broken little finger on his left hand, media who witnessed the incident said today.

An England team spokesman said a statement would be issued later.

Anderson was battling with three other seam bowlers for two spots in England's line-up for their opening World Cup Group C clash with New Zealand on Friday.

The 24-year-old sustained the injury during training and was immediately taken for further examination at a local hospital, media said.

Anderson has only just recovered from a back problem which forced him out of England's recent victorious tri-series campaign in Australia.

REUTERS DH PM2212