Shane Watson has been ruled out of Australia’s series with Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates during October and November due to injury.
The news comes as a further blow to Australia, who this week had captain Michael Clarke sidelined for the three one-day internationals that precede two Tests.
All-rounder Watson will miss these matches and a Twenty20 international before them. Ben Hilfenhaus will take his place in the Test squad and fellow seamer Kane Richardson will come in for Watson for the limited-overs internationals.
Cricket Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said: “Whilst Shane has made steady progress with his rehabilitation after he stepped on a ball and sprained his ankle, he has suffered a setback, experiencing some right calf soreness.
“As Shane has previously had similar calf injuries, we plan to hold back his return to running and bowling for approximately seven-to-ten days.
“The unfortunate timing of this calf injury will mean that his preparation for the UAE tour will be considerably affected and he would have been unavailable for the T20 and ODI part of the tour and significantly limit his bowling preparation for the Test matches.”
Hilfenhaus last played for Australia more than two years ago. Richardson will hope to add to his four ODI caps, three of which came this year.