But the appointment will not be full-time. Dr Gregory will initially be employed for 100 days per year and will not accompany the team on overseas tour.

In recent weeks England have come under fire for failing to help players like Andrew Flintoff recover quickly enough from operations.

Meanwhile, Darren Gough's failed battle to return to injury after injuring his knee during the one-day series in New Zealand in March, has been a long losing battle.

On Tuesday, former England physio Wayne Morton told BBC Sport Online was critical of a situation in which players had individual doctors saying one thing and team management another.

"There's a lack of communication which means that they're still having difficulties," said Morton.

Dr Gregory, a lecturer in sports and exercise medicine at the University of Nottingham, will deliver dedicated medical support to the centrally-contracted England players and begins his job immediately.

He will also co-ordinate a "medical support programme" for the Academy, England's underage sides and the England women's team.

Gregory is to report to Hugh Morris, the former England and Glamorgan opener who now works as The England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) performance director.

Morris said: "I am delighted to welcome such an experienced and highly-qualified medical practitioner to the ECB. Peter will be a huge asset to us.

"He will ensure that any injured England player gets the best possible medical attention and he will be on hand to guide them right through the rehabilitation process."