McCullum gets all-clear

Brendon McCullum will be fit for New Zealdnd's second ODI despite a hip problem

New Zealand wicketkeeper Brendon McCullum has been cleared to play in Friday's second Commonwealth Bank series match against Australia at the MCG.

McCullum has recovered sufficiently from a minor hip flexor injury, meaning standby keeper Gareth Hopkins will now head home after originally being flown in to Perth ahead of New Zealand's two-wicket victory on Sunday.

McCullum played the duration of the match at the WACA and team manager Lindsay Crocker revealed he had responded well to treatment since the initial injury.

"The muscle was a bit stiff after the match in Perth on Sunday, but the medical team is confident that Brendon can participate fully in Friday's second ODI," Crocker said.

"It's the selectors' wish that Gareth returns to New Zealand to play in this week's round of State Twenty20 games on Wednesday and Friday.

"A decision on whether he returns to cover for Brendon over this heavy schedule after Melbourne will be made on Saturday."

The Black Caps hold a 1-0 lead in the one-day international series.