News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

Home  » News » Bevan to join Australian World Cup squad

Bevan to join Australian World Cup squad

January 27, 2003 10:49 IST
Get Rediff News in your Inbox:

Australian batsman Michael Bevan has been cleared to play in next month's World Cup in southern Africa.

"Like Michael, we were all relieved to learn that the extent of his [groin] injury was not as serious as first thought," the chairman of selectors, Trevor Hohns, said.

The left-hander may still miss the one, or possibly two matches of the tournament, but the selectors said they were prepared to take a gamble on him.

"Although he will take a few weeks to regain full fitness, the selection panel along with [captain] Ricky Ponting unanimously agreed that he should retain his spot in the squad.

"It goes without saying that Michael is a key component of our World Cup plans, and with the relevant treatment, we are hoping that he will be back sooner rather than later," Hohns added.

Bevan, whose one-day average of 54.80 is the highest of any player in history who has played a minimum of 20 matches, was considered doubtful for the World Cup after tearing a groin muscle playing against England last Saturday.

He collapsed in agony and had to be carried off the field on a stretcher.

"When I first suffered the injury I feared the worst and thoughts of missing the World Cup went racing through my head," Bevan said.

"But the groin felt considerably better by the morning... it is obviously a big relief, and it's now up to me to do whatever it takes to get the injury right."

The 15-man squad flies to South Africa on Thursday.

Get Rediff News in your Inbox:
Source: REUTERS
© Copyright 2024 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.