Harmison and Jones together would boost England's firepower

Jones has to prove his fitness during the A tour to Malaysia and India, which begins later this month.

If he suffers no reaction following the serious knee injury, he will join the rest of the senior squad.

"I have spent a lot of time with him this winter and he has worked really hard to get fit again," said Harmison.

Both fast bowlers made their Test debuts during the 2002 home series against India - Harmison at Trent Bridge and Jones at Lord's.

They were both picked for last winter's Ashes tour to Australia but the cruciate ligament injury suffered by Jones while fielding in Brisbane means they have yet to play together in a Test.

"I was there when he was carried off in Brisbane.

"That was a hard experience for everyone, especially someone who went to the Academy with Simon the year before like myself," said Harmison.

"I personally thought it could have been the end of Simon's career before it had really started.

I carried the front end of the stretcher Steve Harmison Photos: Jones' Ashes agony

"But I have watched him closely in the last few months and his work-rate has been absolutely fantastic - he has always wanted to get back on the field."

History suggests England will be taking nothing for granted ahead of the team's departure for the Caribbean next month.

Paceman Ricky Ellcock was chosen for the 1990 tour, but did not play a single game because of a back injury which ultimately led to his retirement from the game.

Jones, however, is confident he can put his problems behind him and is grateful for the support he has received so far.

"I can't speak highly enough of the England management for keeping me involved," he said.

"They kept me involved during the season when they didn't have to, inviting me to train with a few of the England players and that helped me familiarise myself with them.

"When you have been out of the game for 14 months you do feel like a bit of a stranger. I know I've only played two Tests, but I felt a part of the England set-up and all the boys were very good to me."