Maxwell gets Australian team call-up

Sydney, July 16 (IANS) Victorian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell got his maiden call-up to the Australian national cricket team when they take on Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates next month.

The 23-year-old versatile all-rounder, who blasted the fastest ever domestic one-day half-century scoring 50 off just 19 balls against Tasmania in February 2011, has had a good domestic season for State side Victoria and Big Bash League franchise the Melbourne Renegades.

Maxwell, capable of scoring fast down the order and a proficient off-spinner, has been included in both the one-day and Twenty20 squads.

"Glenn Maxwell is a relatively inexperienced player who debuted for Victoria in 50-over and T20 cricket in the 2009-10 season and in the Sheffield Shield the following season," chairman of the National Selection Panel (NSP) John Inverarity was quoted as saying by the ABC News.

"He's a versatile and lively off-spinning all-rounder and brilliant fieldsman that has caught the eye of the NSP".

George Bailey has retained his place in Australia's one-day squad and continues as captain of the T20 side.

Australia suffered a humiliating 0-4 loss to England in their last one-day series with one game being washed out.

"The ODI squad has a strong development aspect to it," Inverarity said.

"Shane Watson and Ben Hilfenhaus have not been included and Brett Lee has retired.

"This will provide development opportunities for others and allow Shane and Ben to complete a more thorough strength and conditioning program before embarking on a very demanding schedule."

T20 squad: George Bailey (captain), Shane Watson (vice-captain), Daniel Christian, Patrick Cummins, Xavier Doherty, Ben Hilfenhaus, Brad Hogg, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Glenn Maxwell, Clint McKay, Mitchell Starc, Mathew Wade, David Warner, Cameron White.

ODI squad: Michael Clarke (captain), David Warner (vice-captain), George Bailey, Daniel Christian, Xavier Doherty, Callum Ferguson, David Hussey, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Glenn Maxwell, Clint McKay, James Pattinson, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Mathew Wade.