ENGLAND captain Michael Vaughan has declared himself fit for the second Ashes Test and ended Robert Key's hopes of an international recall.

Vaughan injured his elbow after being hit by a delivery by Hampshire's Chris Tremlett during a net session on Tuesday and there was initially fears that the Yorkshireman had suffered a fracture.

But tests revealed only heavy bruising and Vaughan was able to bat in the nets this morning before making himself available to face Australia at Edgbaston tomorrow.

Kent opener Key had been on stand-by ahead of the crucial Championship match against Glamorgan, which got underway at Canterbury today.

Although the news will come as a disappointment for Key, who lost his place in the England side this summer, it is a boost for Kent as they look to regain their place at the top of the table.

Kent: Fulton, Key, van Jaarsveld, Walker, Stevens, Kemp, Hall, O'Brien, Patel, Cook, Khan.

* LOOK OUT FOR MARK PENNELL'S FULL DAY ONE REPORT FROM ST LAWRENCE AFTER THE CLOSE OF PLAY TONIGHT.