Northeast and Blake get England involvement in crucial fifth Test

PROMISING Kent youngsters Sam Northeast (pictured) and Alex Blake both enjoyed days to remember as they acted as England 12th man in the fifth and final Ashes Test with Australia at the Brit Oval.

Both got the opportunity to join England in the dressing room and entered the field of play on several opportunities to try and help the home side into a commanding position in South London.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, England reached 307-8 at stumps on day one with half-centuries for Ian Bell and Andrew Strauss.

Northeast and Blake will hope for 12th man fielding duties when England take to the field at some stage on day two.

Picture:Keith Chase