Watson Named In Australia's Second Test Squad

Watson Named In Australia's Second Test Squad

Australia will give Shane Watson every chance to prove his fitness ahead of the second Test

©REUTERS / Action Images

Shane Watson is in line to make a comeback to the Australian Test team after he was included in the squad for the second Test against South Africa.

He missed the first Test with a calf injury and the 13-man squad also includes Rob Quiney, who replaced Watson at number three in the order.

He is not yet fully recovered but with the Test getting underway in Adelaide on 22nd November, he has a few days more to prove his fitness.

After Australia had the better of the drawn opening match in Brisbane, bookmakers bet365 make Australia 9/5 to win in Adelaide, with South Africa the same price and the draw available at 7/4.

"The only change from the original 12-player squad named on 29 October is that Rob Quiney remains with the squad after joining the group in Brisbane following Shane Watson’s withdrawal," National Selection Panel (NSP) Chairman John Inverarity said.

"Shane Watson is making steady progress from his calf injury, but it is too early to determine if he will be fit to come under consideration for selection; the game beginning next Thursday.

"The NSP was very pleased with the strong showing by Michael Clarke’s team after an indifferent opening day of the first Vodafone Test in Brisbane.

"They were put under pressure early, but showed great composure to not only regroup but then put considerable pressure on South Africa.  

"Josh Hazlewood was in Brisbane as a development player, however due to RYOBI One-Day Cup commitments he won’t be in Adelaide. Josh gained valuable experience by being around the team in Brisbane. At this stage the NSP is yet to determine if this opportunity will be offered to another developing player for the second Vodafone Test in Adelaide."

Australia Test squad: Michael Clarke (captain), Shane Watson (vice-captain), Ed Cowan, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mike Hussey, Nathan Lyon, James Pattinson, Ricky Ponting, Rob Quiney, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner

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