30 December, 2008

Ricky Ponting Cricket Australia’s (CA) National Selection Panel (NSP) today announced a 12-man squad for the third 3 Mobile Test match against South Africa at the SCG.

The squad is:

Ricky Ponting (c): TAS, 34
Michael Clarke (vc): NSW, 27
Doug Bollinger: NSW, 27
Brad Haddin: NSW, 31
Matthew Hayden: QLD, 37
Nathan Hauritz: NSW, 27
Ben Hilfenhaus: TAS, 25
Michael Hussey: WA, 33
Mitchell Johnson: WA, 27
Simon Katich: NSW, 33
Andrew McDonald: VIC, 27
Peter Siddle: VIC, 24

Commenting on the squad, NSP Chairman Andrew Hilditch said:

“Unfortunately Brett Lee, Andrew Symonds and Shane Watson have been ruled out of the next Test match through injury. Brett and Shane’s injury may keep them out of the game for a while whereas Andrew Symonds will undergo knee surgery and hopefully his absence from the team will be short-lived.

“The National Selection Panel has introduced Doug Bollinger and Ben Hilfenhaus to the squad. Both are having exceptional Sheffield Shield seasons and their ability to move the ball will add depth to the bowling attack, albeit that they have big shoes to fill in those of Brett Lee.

“Andrew McDonald has been a very consistent all-rounder for Victoria for several seasons. He is in very good form and as well as batting in the top six will give us the flexibility we need with our bowling attack.


“While we are obviously disappointed to lose the series to South Africa, the reality is we have got ourselves in very good positions to win both Test matches. It must be said that South Africa has played extremely good cricket and is a very strong side.

“While it’s a challenging time for Australian cricket we have seen lots of positive signs from our young players and we are looking forward to the process of rebuilding Australian cricket.”