Hazlewood wins surprise Test call

Despite playing just six first-class games, Josh Hazlewood has been called up to Australia's Test squad for the tour of India

Teenager Josh Hazlewood is a shock inclusion in the Australia Test squad for next month's tour of India, alongside fellow pace bowler Peter George.

New South Wales bowler Hazlewood, 19, has played just six first-class games after making his debut in a tour match against New Zealand just under two years ago.

George, meanwhile, was a member of the Australia squad that drew 1-1 with Pakistan in England earlier this year, although he did not play.

The selectors were unable to consider wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, who hopes to have recovered from an elbow injury in time to play in the one-day series.

His abense means Tim Paine will again don the gloves and opener Phil Hughes, who dislocated his shoulder in May and underwent surgery to repair the damage, has also been recalled.

National selection panel chairman Andrew Hilditch said: “The squad we have selected sees the return from injury of Phillip Hughes and includes a very good mix of experience and new young talent with Steven Smith, Hughes and two young fast bowlers in Peter George and Josh Hazlewood.

“All these exciting young players have the potential to have a big impact in international cricket for many years and the NSP is confident they will equip themselves well if the opportunity presents itself on this tour.

“India are the number-one ranked team in Test cricket and there is no harder assignment in Test cricket at the moment than playing India on their home soil.

“The Australian squad is really looking forward to the challenge after enjoying a very successful home summer last year and an away series win against New Zealand.

“While it was disappointing to draw the series in England against Pakistan, the squad reflects the good performances of the team over the last 12 months as we continue to prepare for the Ashes.”

The first Test is on October 1 in Mohali, before the players head to Bangalore for the second on October 9.

The Tests will be followed by a three-match one-day series in Kochi (October 17), Visakhapatnam (October 20) and Goa (October 24).

Australia squad

Ricky Ponting (captain)
Michael Clarke
Doug Bollinger
Peter George
Nathan Hauritz
Josh Hazlewood
Ben Hilfenhaus
Phillip Hughes
Michael Hussey
Mitchell Johnson
Simon Katich
Marcus North
Tim Paine (wicketkeeper)
Steven Smith
Shane Watson