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Alex Doolan likely to make squad for South Africa

Batsman Alex Doolan is expected to be included in Australia’s squad to tour South Africa when it is announced on Monday.

National chairman of selectors John Inverarity will announce the squad in Perth for the three-Test series in February and March with Doolan a likely inclusion after he was part of the Australian squad for the final two Ashes Tests.

With Australia looking for stability at the top of the order against the world’s leading pace battery Doolan, who only averages 38 in first class cricket, is seen by Australian selectors as a possible Test No.3.

After failing to cement his spot in the middle order during the Ashes, Twenty20 captain George Bailey’s spot in the Australian side is under threat.

One possible scenario is Doolan, who is yet to make his Test debut, will move into first drop, with Shane Watson dropping down the order from No.3 to No.6 and Bailey falling out of the side.

Bailey missed Sunday’s third One Day International against England at the SCG on Sunday with Cricket Australia not revealing the extent of his injury.

Australia’s first Test against South Africa is in Centurion starting February 12, the second Test is in Port Elizabeth from February 20 with the final Test in Cape Town starting on March 1.

Australia’s squad for the three international Twenty20 matches against England to round out their tour will also be announced on Monday.

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