Australia's selectors have recalled Shane Watson into their squad for the Test series against South Africa.
All-rounder returns to the fold for eagerly anticipated series
Australia's selectors have recalled all-rounder Shane Watson for the Test series against South Africa.
The Queensland star replaces Peter Siddle in the 12-man party ahead of the first Test in Perth on December 17.
Spinner Jason Krejza is also included in place of Nathan Hauritz, despite nursing an ankle injury, in the second change to the squad that routed New Zealand.
Watson has kept up his form in state cricket after missing the second Test against the Kiwis and national selection panel chairman Andrew Hilditch insists both the Indian Premier League winner and Krezja have earned their spots.
Confidence
"Shane Watson is back into the 12 and one of the main reasons he wasn't in the 12 for Adelaide was that we wanted to take the opportunity for him to play for Queensland," Hilditch said.
"He had a good Sheffield Shield game against South Australia, taking wickets and making runs, and adds great flexibility to the squad for this first Test.
"Jason richly deserves to be back in the Test squad as well following his debut in India.
"Having said that, Nathan Hauritz bowled well in Adelaide and we were pleased with his performance."
Australian squad: Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke, Stuart Clark, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Jason Krejza, Brett Lee, Andrew Symonds, Shane Watson.
