Australia call on Magoffin

Steve Magoffin has been added to the Australia squad in South Africa as cover

Steve Magoffin will fly to South Africa to join Australia’s squad as a precautionary measure after fellow pacemen Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus pulled up sore following the opening Test in Johannesburg.

Australia secured a 162-run victory by bowling South Africa out on the final day at the Wanderers, when both Hilfenhaus and Siddle were called upon to shoulder an attack with just three frontline bowlers.

Both players felt sore following their exertions and, with just three rest days before the second Test in Durban is due to begin, Cricket Australia have opted to call up 29-year-old West Australia quick Magoffin as cover.

Australian chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said: “With Ben and Peter suffering some soreness following the first Test, and with such a short turnaround between the first and second Test, the national selection panel has taken the precaution of adding another bowler to the squad.

“Steve Magoffin has been added as a standby player, but that said, he has been a consistent cricketer in the Australian interstate competition for a long time now.

“He is currently placed second on the leading wicket-takers list in the Sheffield Shield competition with 38 wickets and we are sure he will step up should the opportunity present itself in South Africa.”

Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris revealed Hilfenhaus is suffering from a back complaint while Siddle is carrying a foot injury.

“At the conclusion of the first Test Ben Hilfenhaus and Peter Siddle have both reported niggling injuries,” Kountouris said.

“Ben Hilfenhaus is suffering some soreness in his lower back and Peter Siddle some soreness in his left foot.

“We will continue to monitor the fitness of these players in the lead up to the second Test before a decision is made on their availability for selection.”