Bailey Replaces Clarke In Australia ODI Squad

Bailey Replaces Clarke In Australia ODI Squad

George Bailey, seen here in action for the Chennai Super Kings, has been added to Australia's ODI squad

©REUTERS / Action Images

Michael Clarke's hamstring injury has ruled him out of Sunday's Commonwealth Bank Series One-Day International against India and he has been replaced in Australia's squad by Tasmania's George Bailey.

Ricky Ponting will lead the side once more in Clarke's absence as Australia look to get their campaign back on track following an eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in Sydney.

Australia's Twenty20 captain Bailey is called up on the back of excellent form for Tasmania this season and comes despite him being involved in a Sheffield Shield match in Hobart.

His departure from the match will be delayed for as long as possible.

Elsewhere, Victoria left-arm spinner Jon Holland remains with the squad as cover for Xavier Doherty. He had been brought in as cover ahead of the double-header against Sri Lanka and India after Doherty reported back spasms.

Mitchell Marsh was unavailable after scans in Sydney revealed a serious back injury and he is likely to miss the remainder of the season.

"George Bailey has been added to the Australian squad as a standby batsman for this match in Brisbane," coach Mickey Arthur said.

"While it is not ideal having to take George away from the Sheffield Shield match currently underway in Hobart, we feel it is important we have sufficient batting cover in our squad.

"This selection is reward for George’s excellent form with Tasmania this season and recognition that the NSP consider him the next batsman in line for Australian one-day selection."

Clarke's fitness ahead of Australia's match against Sri Lanka in Hobart on 24th February will be assessed early next week.

Australia ODI squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), David Warner (vice-captain), George Bailey, Daniel Christian, Xavier Doherty, Peter Forrest, Ben Hilfenhaus, Jon Holland, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Brett Lee, Clint McKay, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade

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