Rediffmail Money rediffGURUS BusinessEmail

Aus pick Phillip Hughes to replace Hayden

February 05, 2009 15:28 IST

Twenty-year-old Phillip Hughes will replace retired opener Matthew Hayden in Australia's squad for the three-Test tour of South Africa.

The left-hander, who has scored four hundreds, including a highest score of 198 for New South Wales, has aggregated 891 runs @ 74.25, this season.

Hayden retired after the recent series in Australia, which South Africa won 2-1.

The squad includes three other uncapped players in fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus, batsman Marcus North and 36-year-old leg-spinner Bryce McGain.

With fast bowlers Brett Lee and Stuart Clarke unavailable because of injuries and troubled all-rounder Andrew Symonds declared unavailable for selection until the completion of his counselling and rehabilitation, the squad is perhaps the most inexperienced to tour in two decades.

Australia play a three-day game against South Africa A from February 20 to 22 before the first Test in Johannesburg on February 26.

The squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke (vice-captain), Doug Bollinger, Brad Haddin, Nathan Hauritz, Ben Hilfenhaus, Phillip Hughes, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Andrew McDonald, Bryce McGain, Marcus North, Peter Siddle.

WEB STORIES

The Top Countries To Study Medicine

10 Instant Semolina Or Sooji Recipes To Start Your Day

India's Masala Omelette In Top World Egg Rankings

VIDEOS