Cricket365

Aussies Call For Hodge

Friday 9th May 2008

Brad Hodge has been called into Australia's squad for their tour of the West Indies to replace vice-captain Michael Clarke.

Clarke on Friday asked to delay his departure to the Caribbean due to personal reasons.

National Selection Panel chairman Andrew Hilditch believes Hodge will provide an adequate replacement for the three-Test tour.

"Brad has had another strong domestic season with the Victorian Bushrangers in all forms of the game," Hilditch said.

"He is still very highly regarded by the National Selection Panel and this provides him with another opportunity to be involved with the Australian squad."

Clarke's place in the touring party was first called into question after he withdrew from a pre-tour training camp in Brisbane to return to Sydney.

It is believed the 27-year-old pulled out because of the failing health of his fiancee Lara Bingle's father, Graham, who has been battling liver cancer.

Michael Hussey will assume the vice-captaincy in Clarke's absence.

"Despite the circumstances it is a huge honour to be given the role of vice-captain, even if it may only be for a short period of time," Hussey said.

The remainder of the 15-man squad will fly out on Saturday, with the tour starting on May 16.