Khawaja, Beer to debut for Australia

Batsman Usman Khawaja and spinner Michael Beer will make their debuts for Australia in the final Ashes Test against England at the Sydney Cricket Ground, captain Michael Clarke said on Sunday.

Pakistan-born Khawaja will become the first Muslim to play Test cricket for his adopted country, while Beer will get his debut after playing just seven first-class matches for Western Australia. Khawaja will step into the demanding number three batting position, up to now occupied by Ponting.

Michael Clarke, standing in as captain for the injured Ricky Ponting, said selectors had chosen to use the left-arm spin of Beer while making fast bowler Doug Bollinger the 12th man for the fifth Test, starting on Monday.

Australia - Michael Clarke (capt), Brad Haddin (vice-capt), Shane Watson, Phillip Hughes, Usman Khawaja, Mike Hussey, Steven Smith, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus, Michael Beer. Doug Bollinger (12th man).

AFP