Leeds: England captain Andrew Strauss won the toss and elected to bat in the fourth Ashes Test against Australia at Headingley here on Friday.
England omitted Andrew Flintoff after the all-rounder's knee injury ruled him out and, in the only change to the side that drew the third Test at Edgbaston, recalled in-form fast bowler Stephen Harmison.
On a frantic morning, the toss was delayed by 10 minutes after England wicket-keeper Matt Prior suffered a back spasm while playing football during a pre-match warm-up.
However, he was subsequently passed fit to play.
England's selection meant they left out left-arm quick Ryan Sidebottom and uncapped batsman Jonathan Trott.
Australia made two changes to their line-up.
Stuart Clark came in for his first Test of the series in place of off-spinner Nathan Hauritz and first-choice wicket-keeper Brad Haddin, who missed the third Test with a broken finger, was recalled with Graham Manou left out.
That meant there was no recall for veteran fast bowler Brett Lee.
England lead the five-match series 1-0 and victory here would see them regain the Ashes.