Hodge in Aussie one-day squad

Brad Hodge has been named in Australia's one-day squad © Getty Images

Lancashire batsman Brad Hodge has been named in Australia’s one-day squad for the first time after being selected for the three-match Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series against New Zealand.

Hodge, who plays for Victoria in Australia, has been chosen to replace Damian Martyn, who has not recovered from a broken finger, and injuries to several players have seen a number of changes to the team that played in the Johnnie Walker Super Series matches against the ICC World XI.

Shane Watson, James Hopes, Shaun Tait and Damian Martyn have been ruled out through injury whilst Brad Hogg will return to the Australian team for the first time since injuring his knee on the eve of the first Super Series match.

National Selection Panel chairman Trevor Hohns said: "Brad Hodge has been a strong performer for Victoria in both forms of the game for a long period of time. We have seen what he has done at Test level given the opportunity, and believe he will also do the job in the one-day side."

Durham fast bowler and fellow Victorian, Michael Lewis, has been selected for the first time in an Australian team.

"Michael has also been a very solid performer for Victoria for a very long time. We have every confidence and faith that he will do a good job for us in the series and he thoroughly deserves his opportunity," said Hohns.

Australian opening bowler Glenn McGrath will remain in Australia during the Chappell-Hadlee series, with selectors keen to manage the 35 year-old’s bowling workload ahead of what is a busy schedule for the Australian team.

All-rounder Cameron White and fast bowler Stuart Clark retain their positions from the Super Series squad.

Australia ODI squad to face New Zealand: R Ponting (capt), A Gilchrist, N Bracken, S Clark, M Clarke, B Hodge, B Hogg, M Hussey, S Katich, M Lewis, B Lee, A Symonds, C White.

Fixtures
Game 1 - Saturday December 3, Eden Park, Auckland (D/N)
Game 2 - Wednesday December 7, Westpac Stadium, Wellington (D/N)
Game 3 - Saturday December 10, Jade Stadium, Christchurch (D/N)