Aussies bring Clark in as cover

Seam bowler Stuart Clark has been called up to the Australian squad as cover for Glenn McGrath © Getty Images

Australia have called Middlesex seamer Stuart Clark into their squad for this week's deciding Ashes Test as cover for injury doubt Glenn McGrath.

Veteran seamer McGrath has been doubtful ever since injuring his right elbow and missing last week's fourth Test at Trent Bridge, which England won by three wickets to claim a crucial 2-1 lead in the five-Test series.

McGrath has insisted since that he is fit for selection for this Thursday's final Test at The Oval, but Australia's management are less convinced and have called Clark into the squad.

New South Wales paceman Clark was called into the squad briefly in the build-up to the third Test at Old Trafford only to be sent back to Middlesex when McGrath recovered from an ankle injury to play.

Clark has been performing well for Middlesex © Getty Images

McGrath faces fitness tests over the next few days before Australia announce their line-up for a Test they must win if they are to preserve their hold on the Ashes which stretches back as far as 1987.

Clark, who claimed 1-34 off eight overs in his county’s totesport League match against Hampshire at the Rose Bowl on Monday, will take part in Australia’s squad practice on Tuesday at The Brit Oval.

National selection panel chairman, Trevor Hohns, said: "With a decision yet to be made about Glenn McGrath's availability for the Test, we want to make sure that we have some cover and added flexibility heading into this match.

"We have identified Stuart as a similar style bowler to Glenn and given he has been playing some solid cricket in England, it was felt that he was the most suitable inclusion."