NOTTINGHAM (England), July 25: Saurav Ganguly's fitness was called into question just two days before the start of the second Test against England when he missed an indoor practice session at Loughborough University with a back injury.

Ganguly appeared to be struggling with a back problem during the second innings of the drawn series opener at Lord's where India, assisted by bad light and rain, clung on Monday with one wicket standing to ensure the three-match series remained level at 0-0.

However, India team spokesman Rufus Rockey played down concerns over Ganguly's fitness by saying on Wednesday: “It's slight, minor, lower back stiffness. There's nothing to worry about.”

Yuvraj Singh, left out at Lord's, would be the most likely replacement if Ganguly was declared unfit.

“It is not in my hands,” said Yuvraj when asked about his chances on Wednesday. “I would love to play, but it is not in my hands whether I play or not. We will see how it goes in the next two days.” The second Test starts at Trent Bridge on Friday.—AFP