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Khawaja named in Aussie squad

Uncapped New South Wales batsman Usman Khawaja could become the first Muslim to play for Australia after being named on Tuesday in the test squad.

Pakistan-born Khawaja, 23, takes the place of Phil Hughes, who has a shoulder injury.

Swing bowler Ben Hilfenhaus returns to the Australian team after overcoming a knee injury, along with wicketkeeper batsman Brad Haddin, who has been suffering from tennis elbow.

Australia and Pakistan will play the first test at Lord’s from July 13, followed by Headingly from July 21. The tests are being played in England due to concerns over security in Pakistan.

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Khawaja was chosen after some very strong Sheffield Shield performances.

“He is seen by the National Selection Panel as being capable of batting anywhere in the order in test cricket, but importantly for this particular series a top-order batsman who could bat in the top four should the opportunity arise.”

Khawaja, a left-handed batsman, has scored 1,388 runs from 19 first class matches with an average of 51.27.

“Ben Hilfenhaus has successfully returned from injury during the current Australia A series in Queensland,” Hilditch said. “Ben was a critical member of our 2009 Ashes bowling group and it is very pleasing to see him back in the test squad with the next Ashes series just around the corner.”

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Australia: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke, Doug Bollinger, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Nathan Hauritz, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Usman Khawaja, Marcus North, Steven Smith.