Published: Dec 30, 2013, 08:27 AM (IST)
Edited: Dec 30, 2013, 08:27 AM (IST)
Sydney: Dec 30, 2013
Australia on Monday added batsman Alex Doolan to their squad as it prepares for the fifth Ashes Test against England. Cricket Australia (CA) said the Tasmanian was the only addition to the squad which is leading the series 4-0 ahead of the final Test beginning on Friday at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
Doolan is expected to be available if all-rounder Shane Watson is ruled out after suffering a groin strain during the fourth Test win in Melbourne.
“With some players still being assessed by our medical team after four demanding Tests, we have decided to add Alex to ensure we have sufficient cover in our batting line-up should it be required,” national selector John Inverarity said.
“Alex is a talented player who came under strong consideration for selection ahead of the Ashes series after a string of solid performances in four-day cricket for Tasmania at the start of this season, but also after an excellent finish to last season.”
Paceman Doug Bollinger has been released to play in the domestic Twenty20 (T20) competition. Inverarity said the selection panel felt there was sufficient cover for Bollinger with James Faulkner and Nathan Coulter-Nile also in the squad.
