VB Series 2003-04

Mike Hussey replaces injured Bevan

Wisden Cricinfo staff

January 29, 2004

Australia's injury worries have intensified, with the news that Michael Bevan has fractured a rib and will miss the remainder of the VB Series, including the best-of-three finals against India which start on February 6. Mike Hussey, who has captained Australia A in the past but has never got a break in the national side, has been named as his replacement.

Bevan sustained the injury in the nets earlier this week, although it did not prevent him from playing against Zimbabwe at the MCG on Thursday, where he even top-scored with a run-a-ball 56. But the pain intensified during the course of his innings, and he is now likely to be sidelined for up to six weeks.

"I just got hit under the ribs," explained Bevan. "I felt it became a little bit worse halfway through my innings on Thursday." With Australia due to depart for Sri Lanka for a five-match one-day series straight after the VB Series finals, Bevan faces a race for fitness.

Commenting on Hussey, Trevor Hohns, the chief selector, said: "Michael Hussey has been knocking on the selection door for some time and we believe he deserved this opportunity. His form as one of the ING Cup's leading run-scorers this summer has been excellent and it is clear that he has played a big part in the Warriors' strong limited-over performances to date."

Meanwhile, Ricky Ponting will be rested for Australia's final group game against India, so that he is ready for the finals. The captaincy will pass to Adam Gilchrist, who has been rested for the past two matches, and Simon Katich will take his place in the squad.

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Players/Umpires

Michael Bevan

Michael Hussey

Series/Tournaments

VB Series