Shock callup for Clark

29-year-old New South Wales seam bowler Stuart Clark has been called up to the Australian squad for the Third Test against England at Old Trafford starting on Thursday.

Australia, having lost the Second Test by two runs in a thrilling climax on Sunday morning, look likely to miss both Glenn McGrath (torn ankle ligaments) and Brett Lee (knee infection) and have added Clark, currently in England playing for Middlesex, as cover.

With Old Trafford holding a reputation as a turning wicket, Stuart MacGill may replace Lee – the other option for the tourists being to rely on the part-time left arm spin of Simon Katich and Michael Clarke and picking either Clark or South Australian tearaway Shaun Tait as the third seamer.

Meanwhile, Victoria pair Mick Lewis and Shane Harwood, both playing in England – in the Championship for Durham and in the Northern League for Blackpool club side St Anne’s CC respectively – as net bowling cover to ease the strain on the remaining fit Australian seamers.