Mike Hussey

Australian batsman Mike Hussey said he was hoping for a late World Cup call-up after recovering from an injury which made him a shock omission from the defending champions’ squad.

Hussey, who earlier expressed dismay at being left out despite being Australia’s highest ranked one-day batsman, said he was fit again after quickly recuperating from a nasty hamstring tear.

“I have been trying hard to take my focus away from playing in the World Cup but I am over my hamstring injury and will be ready if the selectors give me the call. I am really confident of getting through Western Australia’s upcoming Sheffield Shield match against Queensland and feel I am on right on track.”

Hussey’s hopes have been raised after a left ankle injury ruled out bowler Doug Bollinger, leaving a free berth in Australia’s squad. But the selectors have said they will not name a replacement until the tournament’s later stages.

“I’d love the chance to play in the World Cup, but I think the selectors have made the right call to wait and see how we go over the next game or two before sending someone over to replace Doug Bollinger,” Hussey said.

“Everyone’s going really well at the moment so there is no need to rush into that decision. Hopefully by holding off, we can get a better idea of what we might need to improve on later in the tournament.”

Hussey added that Australia had a “huge chance” of claiming a fourth straight title after opening wins over Zimbabwe and New Zealand.

Meanwhile David Hussey said Thursday his brother Mike was “desperate” to get back into the World Cup squad after being controversially omitted.

“He’s (Mike’s) desperate to get back and play for Australia. He’s back playing (domestic) Shield cricket at the moment. Mike would love to come over here and play,” Hussey, 33, told the press.

Tags: Australia, Cricket, Cricket World Cup, Mike Hussey, Sheffield Shield, World Cup