Australia name Chappell-Hadlee squad

Michael Hussey will captain Australia in the three-match Chappell-Hadlee Series against the BLACKCAPS.

Hussey, whose deputy will be Michael Clarke, replaces Ricky Ponting, who sits out the tour to rest a sore back.

Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin replaces regular deputy Adam Gilchrist.

Australian chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said: "We have received medical advice that it would be prudent for Ricky Ponting to withdraw from competitive cricket in between the
Tri-Series Finals and the start of the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup.

"While his sore back does not prevent him from playing cricket at present, we are advised that for Ricky to arrive at the World Cup in the best possible physical shape, his workload should be managed through this period. It should be noted that there is no question over Ricky's availability for the World Cup.’

Hussey said: "It is a great honour to be selected as the captain of Australia in Ricky's absence. I am looking forward to going over to New Zealand and we are aiming to claim the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy."

The BLACKCAPS squad is announced on Tuesday.

Australia: Michael Hussey (c), Michael Clarke, Nathan Bracken, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Brad Hodge, Brad Hogg, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Adam Voges, Shane Watson, Cameron White.