Australia call up Clark as back-up

Middlesex fast bowler Stuart Clark has been called up by Australia for the fifth and final Ashes Test against England as cover for Glenn McGrath.

The uncapped 29-year-old will join the squad for practice at The Oval on Tuesday, Cricket Australia spokesman said on Monday.

"With a decision yet to be made about Glenn McGrath's availability for the Test, we want to make sure we have some cover and added flexibility heading into this match," chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns told the BBC.

"We have identified Stuart as a similar style of bowler to Glenn and, given he has been playing some solid cricket in England, it was felt he was the most suitable inclusion."

Clark was also called into the squad as cover for McGrath, who is recovering from an elbow injury, before the third Test at Old Trafford.

McGrath struggled in the build-up to the Manchester Test with a damaged ankle but was eventually passed fit to play.

England lead the series 2-1 and need to avoid defeat at The Oval to win the Ashes.

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