Bichel back in Aussie squad

Australian selectors on Friday announced just one change to the squad which beat South Africa in the opening Test for the second clash between the countries starting in Melbourne on December 26.

As expected, Queensland fast bowler Andy Bichel was recalled for leg spinner Stuart MacGill, who was 12th man for the Adelaide Test, won by Australia by 246 runs.

Bichel had been 12th man for each of the three previous Tests against New Zealand but was replaced by MacGill for Adelaide after the selectors flirted with the idea of playing two spinners.

MacGill did not play in Adelaide but took five wickets for New South Wales against the touring South Africans in Sydney on Thursday.

His performance was not enough to sway the selectors' minds to pick him for Melbourne, although he is almost certain to be recalled for the third Test in Sydney, a spinners' paradise.

With the Melbourne Cricket Ground traditionally favouring pace bowlers, it was no surprise to see Bichel back in the squad although he will probably still carry the drinks.

Bichel's fifth and most recent appearance for Australia was in last year's Boxing Day Test against West Indies when he captured career best figures of five for 60 in the first innings.

"It's very good to be back even though I was only away for one game," Bichel said.

"My last game for Australia was in Melbourne and I performed there so hopefully I will get the chance to do that again."

The 12th man will not be named until the day of the match.

Australia - Steve Waugh (captain), Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, Mark Waugh, Damien Martyn, Adam Gilchrist, Brett Lee, Shane Warne, Jason Gillespie, Glenn McGrath, Andy Bichel (12th man to be named).

Mail Cricket Editor