Bichel ruled out of VB Series match, Williams and Bracken drafted into squad as cover

Australia fast bowler Andrew Bichel has been ruled out of his side's VB Series match against Sri Lanka in Brisbane this Wednesday (15 January) with an injured right shoulder.

Western Warriors fast bowler Brad Williams and New South Wales Blues quick Nathan Bracken have been drafted into the squad as cover for both Bichel and Glenn McGrath.

McGrath's fitness for Wednesday's match is still to be determined after suffering joint irritation in his lower back.

Bichel suffered the injury during Saturday's VB Series match against England in Hobart (11 January) following a heavy dive in the field, but continued to bowl.

Australian team physiotherapist Errol Alcott said: "Andy has suffered acute damage to some tendons in his right shoulder.

"The shoulder hasn't improved over the last few days so he will have diagnostic scans in Brisbane tomorrow.

"After that we will have a better understanding of the injury and the likely time it will take before he resumes bowling."

Andrew Bichel said: "I'm pretty disappointed at missing this match, particularly as it's in my home state.

"I guess it's a question of looking at the bigger picture though, and making sure the body is right before the VB Series finals and the World Cup.

"I will be guided by Errol and the medical experts as to the steps that need to be taken to get back out on the field."

Commenting on the selection of Williams and Bracken as cover players, Chairman of the National Selection Panel Trevor Hohns said: "Both Brad and Nathan have performed quite well this summer and did a good job when spearheading the Australia A attack.

"They warrant an opportunity to play at national level should either of them be required."

Williams' first and only one-day international was the opening match of the 2001-02 VB Series against New Zealand in Melbourne, while Bracken who made his one-day international debut against the West Indies in 2000-01 has not added to his nine-match tally since the 2001 Kelvinator Tour of India.