National selectors have included hamstrung captain Michael Clarke in Australia’s 15-man squad for the World Cup.
Clarke, who missed the final three Tests against India due to hamstring surgery, has been given until February 21 to prove his fitness for the one-day tournament.
Chief selector Rod Marsh can replace Clarke in the squad, and revealed he will do so if the 33-year-old is not ready to go for the side’s clash with Bangladesh in Brisbane.
“We have said that if Michael has not recovered by our second match of the tournament against Bangladesh … we will replace him in the squad,” Marsh said.
“He understands that and is working tirelessly with medical staff to get back to fitness.
“Our medical staff are pleased with his progress following hamstring surgery in December and he continues to undergo thorough rehabilitation work with a view to being ready to play an important role in the World Cup.”
Mitch Marsh, who missed recent Tests at the MCG and SCG due to a hamstring strain, was also named in a squad that contained few surprises.
Allrounders Marsh, Shane Watson and James Faulkner were all automatic selections, while Glenn Maxwell is likely to be given a chance to shine in Australia’s XI.
Xavier Doherty was picked as the sole tweaker, with Maxwell expected to provide the side’s spin in most games.
Mitchell Johnson, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will make up Australia’s pace attack.
Brad Haddin will keep wickets, while David Warner and Aaron Finch will open the batting for the co-hosts.
Batsmen Steve Smith, in the form of his life after scoring 769 runs in the four-Test series against India, and George Bailey round out the squad.
Bailey remains vice-captain of the one-day side and will lead Australia if Clarke fails to play in the tournament.
Australia relinquished the World Cup in 2011 when they lost to eventual winners India in a quarter-final.
This year’s tournament starts with Australia facing England at the MCG on February 14, with the final to be held at the same venue on March 29.
Australia, England and India will have a chance to tune up for the 50-over event in the upcoming tri-series, which begins in Sydney on Friday.
Australia’s World Cup squad: David Warner, Aaron Finch, Shane Watson, Steve Smith, Michael Clarke (capt), George Bailey (vice-capt), Glenn Maxwell, Mitch Marsh, James Faulkner, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Xavier Doherty.
