Australian batsman Michael Bevan has been cleared to play in next month's World Cup in southern Africa.

"Like Michael, we were all relieved to learn that the extent of his [groin] injury was not as serious as first thought," the chairman of selectors, Trevor Hohns, said.

The left-hander may still miss the one, or possibly two matches of the tournament, but the selectors said they were prepared to take a gamble on him.

"Although he will take a few weeks to regain full fitness, the selection panel along with [captain] Ricky Ponting unanimously agreed that he should retain his spot in the squad.

"It goes without saying that Michael is a key component of our World Cup plans, and with the relevant treatment, we are hoping that he will be back sooner rather than later," Hohns added.

Bevan, whose one-day average of 54.80 is the highest of any player in history who has played a minimum of 20 matches, was considered doubtful for the World Cup after tearing a groin muscle playing against England last Saturday.

He collapsed in agony and had to be carried off the field on a stretcher.

"When I first suffered the injury I feared the worst and thoughts of missing the World Cup went racing through my head," Bevan said.

"But the groin felt considerably better by the morning... it is obviously a big relief, and it's now up to me to do whatever it takes to get the injury right."

The 15-man squad flies to South Africa on Thursday.