Bichel in Aussie squad for first Test against the Windies

Queensland paceman Andy Bichel was the one surprise when selectors Thursday named a 13-man Australian squad for next week's first cricket Test against the West Indies in Brisbane.

His inclusion suggests the selectors want to keep their bowling options open with the new Gabba wicket still something of an unknown quantity and Bichel boasting extensive experience of local conditions.

The squad includes veteran Mark Waugh and opener Matthew Hayden, winning the only batting positions that were considered even remotely up for grabs after scoring centuries in their last domestic matches.

Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee and Jason Gillespie are expected to headline the attack while the 12th man duties will most likely fall to versatile bowler Colin Miller or leg-spinner Stuart MacGill.

Batsman Ricky Ponting is back in the squad after missing the three-Test series in New Zealand earlier this year because of ankle surgery.

Ponting, MacGill and Gillespie are all returning after varying absences, replacing Damien Martyn, injured Shane Warne and Damien Fleming from the team which beat New Zealand in the third Test in Hamilton in April.

The West Indies have yet to name their squad for the Test which begins next Thursday.

Australia:
1.Steve Waugh (captain)
2.Adam Gilchrist (vice-captain)
3.Michael Slater
4.Matthew Hayden
5.Justin Langer
6.Mark Waugh
7.Ricky Ponting
8.Brett Lee
9.Jason Gillespie
10.Stuart MacGill
11.Glenn McGrath
12.Colin Miller
13.Andrew Bichel

Mail Cricket Editor