Melbourne, July 26(ANI): Cricket Australia (CA) has named a 15-man squad for the three-Test series against Sri Lanka.
The team includes three uncapped players- off-spinner Nathan Lyon and fast bowlers Trent Copeland and James Pattinson.
Lyon, who has played just a handful of first class matches, will be the 11th spinner to be used in a Test match since Shane Warne retired in 2007 and should he make his debut in Sri Lanka.
"Nathan may be a surprise selection, but he impressed all who have seen him in the last year and bowled beautifully (on the A team tour to Zimbabwe)," Fox Sports quoted chief selector Andrew Hilditch, as saying.
"He is a young man with immense potential and we feel he will take this opportunity should he get the chance to play in Sri Lanka," he added.
Left-arm spinner Michael Beer has been recalled into the squad to support Lyon, with selectors expecting spin to play a major role in the tour.
Beer, who played in the fifth Ashes Test in January, failed to impress, with just one wicket for 112.
Shane Watson will open the batting with Phillip Hughes, with selectors hoping to build a strong opening partnership.
Ricky Ponting, Watson, Michael Clarke and Michael Hussey provide experience and selectors say the squad is a good blend of young and old.
"It is obviously a very important time for Australian cricket as we strive to get back to the top of world rankings in Test cricket," Hilditch said.
Australia Test Squad: Michael Clarke (captain), Shane Watson (vice-captain), Michael Beer, Trent Copeland, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Phillip Hughes, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, James Pattinson, Ricky Ponting and Peter Siddle. (ANI)
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