Watson back in squad for injured Symonds

The injury to all-rounder Andrew Symonds has prompted Shane Watson’s recall to the Australian squad for the cricket tri-series finals starting on Friday.

Watson, who has missed almost the entire season with a recurring hamstring injury, last played for the national team in the Champions Trophy. “We have included Watson in the squad for the final’s. He has been given a full medical clearance and has successfully returned to domestic cricket,” chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said.

Pace bowlers Stuart Clark and Shaun Tait have been released. “With Watson returning to the side there is no need to continue with five specialist fast bowlers. Both Stuart and Shaun were unlucky to be omitted but remain very much in contention for selection to the World Cup squad,” he said.

Left-arm spinner Brad Hogg has been retained despite playing only one of the eight matches in the tri-series so far.