Australian squad for third 3-sponsored Test in Melbourne

Cricket Australia today announced that the National Selection Panel (NSP) has replaced injured fast-bowler Jason Gillespie with New South Welshman Brett Lee in the 12-man Australian squad to face India in the third 3-sponsored Test match in Melbourne, beginning on 26 December.

The squad is:

*A twelfth man will be announced in due course.

Lee returns to the squad having recovered from the abdominal injury he sustained during Australia's nine-wicket win in the second 3-sponsored Test against Zimbabwe in Sydney last October.

The injury forced him to withdraw from Australia's Travelex One-Day International Tour of India during which he used the recovery period to undergo elective surgery to his left ankle.

Since returning from injury, Lee has played three matches for New South Wales' SpeedBlitz Blues (two Pura Cup and one ING Cup match) where his most recent match against Tasmania in Sydney saw him claim five-wickets in the first innings.

NSP Chairman Trevor Hohns said: "Brett is an established Test player and has demonstrated that he is back to full fitness following injury.

"The two Pura Cup matches he now has under his belt have been ideal preparation for his comeback, and we were encouraged by his recent form against Tasmania in Sydney.

"Brett always adds some zest to the attack and will be supported by our other bowlers who we felt, despite the loss, served the side well in Adelaide," he said.

Jason Gillespie, who suffered a strain to his right groin during the second Test in Adelaide will travel to Melbourne to undergo treatment with Australian physiotherapist, Errol Alcott.

Brad Williams, meanwhile, who sustained a strain to his left A/C joint in Adelaide has been declared fit.