Australia have called upon four new bowlers from the rest of the ODI series with South Africa.
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ICC Cricketer of the Year Mitchell Johnson will be rested for the remainder of the one-day international series against South Africa, with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc earning call-ups.
Johnson will miss Wednesday’s clash with the Proteas in Canberra, as well as the final two matches in Melbourne and Sydney on Friday and Sunday respectively.
The 33-year-old is being rested for the four-test series against India starting on December 4 in Brisbane.
Cummins will make his first ODI appearance from Australia since June 2012, while Starc returns to the squad after overcoming a groin injury.
Spinner Xavier Doherty has also been included in the squad, while James Faulkner will link up with the side for the final two games after he completes his Sheffield Shield commitments with Tasmania.
Australian selector Rod Marsh explained the decision to call upon four bowlers via a statement from Cricket Australia.
“We have chosen not to replace Michael Clarke in the squad with another batsman. After considering the situation we believe we have enough batting depth for the next three matches of this series without calling in another player,” he said.
“We have decided to add two extra pace options to the squad with Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. That also gives us the opportunity to ensure Mitchell Johnson is fresh and well prepared ahead of the first Test against India.”
AUSTRALIA SQUAD:
George Bailey (C), Nathan Coulter-Nile, Pat Cummins, Xavier Doherty, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Kane Richardson, Steve
Smith, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner, Shane Watson.
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