IndiaPost.com - Brad Hogg makes the cut in Australian squad

MELBOURNE: Left-arm spinner Brad Hogg has been included in the 12-man Australian squad, announced by Cricket Australia for the first three Tests of the four-match series against India. Hogg, who last played a Test for Australia in October 2003, replaced injured spinner Stuart Macgill.

Express bowler Shuan Tait, whose action has been questioned by the New Zealand Team, replaces Ben Hilfenhaus to return to the Australian squad after recuperating from an elbow injury.

Andrew Hilditch, Chairman of the national selection panel, said Hogg deserved an opportunity to play for his country. "Brad Hogg replaces MacGill in the squad of 12, based on his Pura Cup performance to date and his consistent performance for the One-Day International team in that form of the game. Brad deserves the opportunity to once again represent Australia in Test cricket," Hilditch said in a statement.

Hilditch added that the final make-up of the starting 11 will be determined after inspecting the conditions at the Ground. The first Test begins at Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, the Boxing Day.

Squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), Adam Gilchrist (vice-captain), Stuart Clark, Michael Clarke, Matthew Hayden, Brad Hogg, Michael Hussey, Phil Jaques, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Andrew Symonds, Shaun Tait.