Underperforming all-rounder Shane Watson has been omitted from Australia's 12-man squad named to play the second Test against New Zealand in Adelaide. Watson, who edged spinner Jason Krejza for the final spot in the first Test, took just two wickets in Australia's 149-run win at the Gabba and scored 1 and 5 with the bat.
Australian selectors have recalled Peter Siddle for the Adelaide Test beginning next Friday after the paceman was cut from the 13-man squad for the series opener.
Krejza carried the drinks at the Gabba but is likely to get the nod on an Adelaide pitch expected to yield turn as the match progresses, with Siddle the likely 12th man.
In eight Tests for Australia, Watson averages less than 20 with the bat and has taken just 14 wickets at a touch over 35.
In a statement released by Cricket Australia, chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Watson would be released to play for Queensland in the domestic competition.
"It is obviously disappointing for Shane Watson to be omitted from the Test 12 after playing well for us during the four-Test period in India and this week at the Gabba," he said.
"We have been very pleased with Shane's development, but for the Adelaide Test our intention is to play a specialist spinner rather than the make-up used successfully in the first Test.
"Having made that decision we thought it was important that Shane took the opportunity to play for Queensland to ensure he had played as much cricket as possible leading in to the remainder of what is very important Australian summer."
Australia
Ricky Ponting (c), Michael Clarke (vc), Stuart Clark, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Peter Siddle, Andrew Symonds.
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