Ashes 2013-14: Alex Doolan shocked after Ashes selection

Australia’s Alex Doolan was beaming after being selected for the fifth and final Test in Sydney. Doolan said he was stunned by Cricket Australia’s call and told reporters that he was willing to wait for his chances to play in the starting eleven.

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.