Dan Cullen replaces injured Clark

Dan Cullen, the South Australian offspinner, has replaced Stuart Clark in Australia's squad for the Champions Trophy. Cullen, who was named the Bradman young cricketer of the year in this year's Allan Border Medal function, said the call-up was unexpected though he was excited about the opportunity he had been given.

"It's really disappointing for Stuart [Clark] to miss out with an injury and I'm sure that everyone wishes him the best for a speedy recovery," Cullen told AAP. "However, it's now up to me to take this opportunity and put my best foot forward for the team and I'm really looking forward to going to India."

Cullen has played five one-day matches, his latest being two matches against West Indies in the DLF Cup at Kuala Lumpur, where he bowled eight overs at an economy-rate of over six.

But Andrew Hilditch, the chairman of the national selection panel, was optimistic about Cullen's chances in India later this month. "Dan bowled really well in Kuala Lumpur from limited opportunities," said Hilditch. "We saw this as an ideal opportunity to continue his development at international level while also gaining valuable experience in Indian conditions.

"We are comfortable with the balance of our bowling attack with four fast bowlers, two spinners and a number of allrounders who can compliment our front-line attack."

Clark was out of the Champions Trophy squad after he tore his left thigh during a club match in Australia. Alex Kountouris, the Australian team physio, expects him to be recover in four to six weeks.