Clarke returns to lead Australia in ODIs

Melbourne, Jan 14 (IANS): Michael Clarke returns as the Australia captain for the upcoming third and fourth One-Day Internationals (ODI) against Sri Lanka Jan 18 at the Gabba and Jan 20 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The Cricket Australia national selection panel Monday named a 12-member squad which also saw the return of explosive batsman David Warner and wicketkeeper Matthew Wade.

Commenting on the squad, national selector John Inverarity said: “Changes to the squad that played the first two matches of the series are the return of Michael Clarke, David Warner and Matthew Wade, after having a break.

“Moises Henriques also comes into the squad as a genuine all-rounder whose bowling will be suited to conditions often found at the Gabba. This will be an opportunity for him to impress as we look for a good seam bowling all-rounder.”

Meanwhile, Steve Rixon will take over as the head coach for the third match in Brisbane as Mickey Arthur returns home to spend some time with his family. Arthur will re-join the squad in Sydney Saturday.

The squad will assemble in Brisbane Jan 15 ahead of the third match Friday.

The squad: Michael Clarke (captain), George Bailey, Xavier Doherty, Moises Henriques, Phillip Hughes, David Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Clint McKay, Mitchell Starc, Matthew Wade, David Warner.