HOBART (Australia), Jan 17 New Twenty20 batting sensation David Warner will replace Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke in the national squad for Sunday's second One-day International against South Africa at the Bellerive Oval.

Clarke has been ruled out of the remainder of the South African series due to his injured thumb needing more rest after Friday night's series-opening loss to the Proteas in Melbourne.

Warner, who smashed a blistering 89 off just 43 in the opening Twenty20 International at the MCG earlier this month, will get his chance to stake a claim after missing Friday's match.

The 22-year-old is yet to play a first-class match for New South Wales but former players have been calling for the youngster's inclusion since his exciting Twenty20 display.

Clarke, who injured his thumb during last month's Test series against South Africa, will spend another two weeks on the sidelines according to Australian physiotherapist Alex Kountouris.

“When Michael arrived in Melbourne on Wednesday, it was evident that after one weeks rest the pain in his thumb had decreased enough for him to bat at training the following day,” Kountouris said.

“However during last night's match, he experienced pain while batting.

“It was the first time that he had batted without an injection since suffering the injury during the Test match at the WACA.

“While Michael could continue to play with pain-relieving injections, this will ultimately slow his recovery.

“As a result, it was decided that he will now rest for two weeks, after which point he will be reviewed by Cricket Australia medical staff with the plan for him to be available for the series against New Zealand. With an important Test series against South Africa starting in four weeks, this is the best course of action.”

Clarke, who played through the pain to score 19 and take 1-29 in Friday's first one-dayer, aims to return when the ODI series with New Zealand begins on Feb 1.

Australian chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch backed Warner, saying he hoped the left-hander would use the opportunity to secure a spot in the one-day team.

“This is obviously very disappointing for Michael and his presence will be sorely missed,” Hilditch said. “However it presents an exciting opportunity for David Warner to follow his spectacular Twenty20 debut in the 50-over format for Australia.”

Warner is likely to open with Shaun Marsh, with Mike Hussey reverting to his regular role in the middle order, in Sunday's game.—Agencies