England have underlined their concern for Michael Atherton's continuing back problem by rushing Graeme Hick out to provide cover before the start of the first Test in Brisbane on Friday.

Atherton is still regarded as England's most influential player Down Under, despite stepping down as captain last winter and his failure to take the field on the dramatic third day of the tour match with Queensland yesterday. Both coach David Lloyd and physio Wayne Morton attempted to make light of the complaint, other than admitting it was "a worry" with the first Test imminent, but Hick was contacted promptly and will join the rest of the squad in Brisbane on Wednesday.

There is little doubt that Atherton's complaint dominated England's thoughts during a dramatic penultimate day to their match with Queensland. Seventeen wickets fell to leave the tourists on 74 for five needing a further 68 to reach their modest victory target of 142.