Australians reveal next round of player movements
Shane Watson will be rested from the second Carlton Mid ODI match at the Gabba on Friday, while Aaron Finch and James Pattinson will both be free to play in the KFC Big Bash League on Tuesday as Australia's National Selection Panel continues to shuffle its squad through the limited-overs fixtures.
The omission of Watson, who was bowled for a second-ball duck at the MCG on Sunday night, may upset some in the Sunshine State who still regard the Ipswich-born allrounder as one of their own.
However, the Gabba crowd will be able to welcome Mitchell Johnson, who seems certain to play after being rested for the opening victory of the five-match series at the MCG on Sunday.
Pattinson and Finch will play for the Melbourne Renegades against Sydney Thunder at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night. The Thunder, however, will be without Australia representatives David Warner and Michael Clarke.
Coach Darren Lehmann said: “As we have done with Mitchell (Johnson) in Melbourne, we will look to give Shane a break for the second match.
“Both James and Aaron will play for the Renegades, neither of these players have been involved in the Ashes Series so their lead in to this ODI Series has not been as intense.â€
The Australian ODI squad officially assembles in Brisbane on Wednesday but some players will fly in earlier depending on their individual preparation plans.
Pace bowlers Johnson, James Faulkner, Clint McKay, Nathan Coulter-Nile and batsman Shaun Marsh will travel to Brisbane on Tuesday evening and will train at the National Cricket Centre on Wednesday afternoon.
The remainder of the squad, including Pattinson and Finch, will arrive in Brisbane late on Wednesday afternoon.
www.cricket.com.au/news-list/2014/1/13/s...on-to-miss-gabba-odi