STRAUSS FAITH

Batsman Andrew Strauss said England had faith in the ECB to make sure it was safe to return.

"To begin with there was a lot of shock, a lot of emotion," he told BBC radio. "When something like that happens cricket doesn't seem like such a big priority.

"Having had a few days to let things settle down you can look at things a bit more logically and objectively and it seems like the right thing to do (to go back), both for the game of cricket and the England team."

The only member of the 15-man party not returning will be seam bowler Ryan Sidebottom, who has a side injury.

Paceman Stuart Broad will remain in England for treatment on a hamstring problem but is expected to travel in time for the second test.

While the players practice in Abu Dhabi, Hugh Morris and Sean Morris, chief executive of the Professional Cricketers Association (PCA), will join Dickason in Chennai before reporting back to the squad on the security situation.

"The only consideration in all our discussions has been the safety and security of the team and support staff," Hugh Morris said.

"We have been delighted by the input of the PCA and also the willingness of the BCCI to act upon our recommendations regarding security."