3 Jan 2011

Australia call up Khawaja to replace Ponting

12:12 pm on 3 January 2011

Uncapped batsman Usman Khawaja has been named in the 12-man Australian cricket squad to prepare for the fifth and final Test against England in Sydney.

The Pakistan-born 24-year-old, who plays as an opener for New South Wales, is expected to take the injured Ricky Ponting's number three batting spot.

Michael Clarke will lead the side, with wicketkeeper Brad Haddin installed as his vice captain.

Australia have also named spinner Michael Beer in the squad for the test at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

England took an unassailable 2-1 lead in the series with victory in Melbourne on Wednesday to retain the Ashes they won last year on home soil.