Brad Hodge's possible call-up to the Australian cricketers Ashes touring party has been put on hold after scans on Shane Watson revealed only a minor thigh complaint.
The Victorian was considered the frontrunner to replace Watson if the all-rounder succumbed to his latest injury drama.
Hodge has been enduring a nervous wait of his own with his heavily-pregnant wife Meg due to give birth to their second child yesterday.
Hodge, who averages a stunning 55.88 in six Tests, last played for Australia 13 months ago when he scored 67 and 27 as a late replacement for an injured Matthew Hayden.
He has been in imperious form in all three forms of the game since then and was seriously considered for the Ashes squad but missed out to Watson after Marcus North took his opportunity in the 2-1 series win in South Africa.
