BRISBANE, Nov 3: Fast bowler Ben Hilfenhaus has replaced injured Shaun Tait in the Australian squad for next week’s opening Test against Sri Lanka at the Gabba, Cricket Australia said on Saturday.

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said Tait had been ruled out with elbow soreness.

“It’s disappointing for Shaun to have suffered a slight aggravation to his elbow in the lead-up to the first Test,” Hilditch said.

“Whilst this is disappointing for Shaun, it creates an opportunity for Ben Hilfenhaus to come into the squad.

“Ben richly deserves his opportunity after a magnificent Sheffield Shield season last year. He also impressed all with his involvement around the Australian squad in the One-day International series in India last month.”

Hilfenhaus has played one limited-over international, taking 1-26 against New Zealand off seven overs in Hobart last January. He has yet to play a Test.

Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said that Tait’s injury was only minor.

“Shaun had been progressing well following elbow surgery in May this year and this would appear be a short-term setback,” Kountouris said.

The 13-man Australia squad will assemble here on Sunday ahead of the Test, which begins on Thursday.—AFP