Australia player profiles

Ricky Ponting (capt, DOB 19/12/74, caps 256)

One of the greatest batsmen of this or any other generation, Ponting has the ability to dominate any bowling attack. A superb technician who possesses the fullest range of stroke, he is a joy to watch when in full flow.

Adam Gilchrist (wk, 14/11/71, 242)

A wicket-keeper who would make it into every side in the world purely as a batsman. Particularly strong through the off-side, he knows only one way to play: with unbridled aggression.

Simon Katich (21/8/75, 45)

Nuggety left-hander whose game revolves largely around working the ball into the gaps. Often betrayed by a lack of footwork, but nevertheless possesses a superb eye.

Mike Hussey (27/5/75, 43)

Phenomenal record since making a belated ODI debut at the age of 28. A manipulative left-hander, Hussey has earned the tag of Australia's new ‘finisher’, a modern-day Michael Bevan.

Andrew Symonds (9/6/75, 149)

A key figure behind Australia's one-day success in recent years, Symonds provides considerable firepower in the middle-order as well as useful medium pace. One of the world's finest ground fielders.

Damien Martyn (21/10/71, 203)

Another vastly experienced member of Australia's powerful top and middle order. Blessed with devastatingly quick hands, Martyn's impeccable technique also stands up to the closest scrutiny.

Michael Clarke (2/4/81, 86)

A prodigiously gifted attacking batsman, Clarke has long since been regarded as the future of Australian cricket. When in full flow there are few players more pleasing to watch.

Shane Watson (17/6/81, 47)

Tall, athletic and powerful, Watson has all the attributes of an international all-rounder, but injuries have prevented him fulfilling his potential. A clean-hitting batsman and no slouch with the ball.

Brett Lee (8/11/76, 138)

Continues to contest the mantle of fastest bowler in the world with Shoaib Akhtar. Lee has added control to his blistering pace and boasts a strike-rate of a wicket every 29 balls in one-day internationals.

Brad Hogg (6/2/71, 87)

The closest Australia had to a specialist spinner in their squad before Dan Cullen’s call-up, the versatile Hogg offers naggingly accurate chinamen as well as useful runs in the middle order.

Nathan Bracken (12/9/77, 41)

Brisk left-arm seamer who was entrusted with the new ball during Glenn McGrath's absence. Capable of extracting considerable lateral movement and difficult to score against.

Glenn McGrath (9/2/70, 225)

McGrath made his return to international cricket during the recent DLF Cup in Malaysia, having spent much of the year with his ill wife. Possesses that rare blend of economy and wicket-taking potential. Australia's best one-day bowler.

Mitchell Johnson (2/11/81, 7)

Left-armer Mitchell has pace in abundance but his accuracy sometimes leaves a little to be desired. Highly thought-of in his homeland and attracted the attention of the world with 4-11 against India in the DLF Cup.

Dan Cullen (10/4/84, 5)

Called into the squad as a replacement for Stuart Clark, off-spinner Cullen is seen by many as the long-term heir to Shane Warne’s throne. Possesses the rare ability to bowl the ‘doosra’, and a nickname of ‘Fiery’ reflects his competitive nature.