Flintoff has watched more events than he has played in during 2006

The original deadline was 7 September but England will now have an extra three days to evaluate their plans.

"We are extremely grateful to the ICC for this concession," chairman of selectors David Graveney said.

The extra time makes it even more likely that key all-rounder Andrew Flintoff will be named in the squad.

Flintoff has not played since undergoing a second operation on his left ankle in July, but Graveney spoke recently of his optimism of including his talisman.

"There has been talk of him playing as a batsman in the initial stages."

Flintoff, who is currently undergoing warm weather training in Portugal, would also be a candidate to lead the team if passed fit, leaving a tough choice between him and Andrew Strauss.

But Graveney said: "The selectors haven't even discussed the question of the captaincy yet."

England remain hopeful that fast bowler Steve Harmison will make the Champions Trophy despite a back problem, but there appears little chance of Darren Gough regaining fitness in time for the tournament.

Gough was forced to withdraw from the current series against Pakistan because of a shin injury and will be out of action for six weeks.