Australia pull Bailey out of the hat

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George Bailey has not set the Big Bash League alight, averaging 19 during seven innings at only slightly better than a run a ball

Uncapped George Bailey has been named Australia’s new Twenty20 captain with previous skipper Cameron White dropped from the squad to face India.

White has been in poor form and has paid for it by being left out of the 14-man party for the internationals on February 1 and 3 at Sydney and Melbourne respectively.

White, who had replaced Michael Clarke as Twenty20 captain after Australia's Test leader made himself unavailable for the shortest format a year ago, was omitted after averaging just 7.85 with the bat in the Big Bash League.

Specialist batsman Bailey, the Tasmania skipper who has been captained by White for Melbourne Stars in the BBL, has hardly set the T20 competition alight - averaging 19 in seven innings at only slightly better than a run a ball.

However, national selection panel chairman John Inverarity said: "The NSP unanimously favoured George Bailey as captain of the T20 team.

"George is a very good T20 player with a sound record. He is widely respected and regarded as an outstanding captain, having had sustained success in this role.

"The role of the captain is especially important in fast moving T20 cricket. Meticulous preparation then needs to be accompanied by cool split-second decision making throughout the 120 events when the team is in the field."

"A captain can have a most significant impact on a game even if he does not bowl or get to the crease."

There is also a surprise recall for 40-year-old spinner Brad Hogg, who has been named alongside fellow veteran Brett Lee, 35.

Hogg, who turns 41 next month, returns to the side following a fine BBL campaign with 12 wickets in eight games for Perth Scorchers. Lee has taken six in eight for Sydney Sixers.

"Brett Lee and Bradley Hogg are the veterans in the team and provide a pleasing blend of experience with the youth and relative inexperience in the squad," Inverarity said.

"Brad Hogg's bowling has been outstanding and his case for inclusion was compelling. He has had a real impact in the BBL in recent weeks."

Star all-rounder Shane Watson remains unavailable due to his ongoing fitness problems.

Australia Twenty20 squad: George Bailey (captain), David Warner (vice-captain), Travis Birt, Dan Christian, Xavier Doherty, James Faulkner, Aaron Finch, Brad Hogg, David Hussey, Brett Lee, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Clint McKay, Matthew Wade (wicketkeeper).