Hughes recalled as cover for Ponting

Australia’s selectors have recalled opening batsman, Phillip Hughes as cover for injured Captain Ricky Ponting in a 13-man squad for the first of three Tests against Pakistan starting on Boxing Day.



Hughes, who scored 100 for New South Wales in a Sheffield Shield match this past weekend, has not played a Test since being dropped after two games in the Ashes series this past summer.



The left-hander is set to replace Ponting, if the skipper does not recover in time from the blow he suffered on his arm in the Perth Test against West Indies last week.



Ponting was struck on the left elbow trying to evade a rising delivery from pacer Kemar Roach at the WACA and is being given on-going treatment for the injury.



Peter Siddle is back in the squad after injury, but his pace partner Ben Hilfenhaus is still sidelined.



Siddle missed the Perth Test against the Windies with a hamstring strain, but will play a domestic one-dayer for Victoria tomorrow to build up his fitness.



Clint McKay, who made his debut at the WACA, holds his place.