Cricket Australia's National Selection Panel today announced a 13-man squad for the first two Commonwealth Bank ODI matches against the West Indies.
The Australian squad for the first and second matches is:
Michael Clarke (Capt)
George Bailey
Ben Cutting
Xavier Doherty
Aaron Finch
Moises Henriques
Phillip Hughes
Mitchell Johnson
Glenn Maxwell
Clint McKay
Mitchell Starc
Matthew Wade
David Warner
Aaron Finch comes into the side, replacing David Hussey as the only major change to the ODI squad, that drew the series against Sri Lanka.
“The National Selection Panel (NSP) was delighted with the ODI team’s impressive win against Sri Lanka in Hobart on Wednesday, in particular with Phillip Hughes’ well-crafted innings and the bowling of Xavier Doherty and Moises Henriques," National Selector John Inverarity said.
“There were concerns, however, with the team’s batting performances during the series when the conditions were conducive to swing bowling, conditions that were beautifully exploited by Nuwan Kulasekara and Lasith Malinga.
“Aaron Finch has been included in the squad at the expense of David Hussey. A top four of Warner, Finch, Hughes and Clarke has good balance and the team looks forward to getting better starts than has been the case recently. David Hussey has been dropped from the squad as the NSP keeps a constant eye on the future."
Inverarity also hoped Clarke would be available for the series opener at the WACA.
“Michael Clarke is making steady progress with the ankle he injured on 22 January and we are confident that Michael will recover in time to be fit for the first of the ODI fixtures against the West Indies on 1 February".
Missing out on selection were James Pattinson and Shane Watson.
“James Pattinson came under consideration for this squad but, at the time of the selection meeting, he had not bowled a ball in interstate or international cricket since 24 November. It is anticipated that James will go to Perth to practice with the Squad," Inverarity explained
“Shane Watson has been making pleasing progress in recent weeks. He is planning on playing for his Sydney club tomorrow and will be available for selection for New South Wales’ RYOBI One-Day Cup fixture against Western Australia on 30 January,” Inverarity said.
First Posted 25 January, 2013 11:54AM AEST
