Australia recall Henriques, Starc for Sri Lanka tour

Sydney: All-rounder Moises Henriques earned a surprise recall Tuesday to Australia’s Test squad for Sri Lanka after James Pattinson was ruled out injured, with Stephen O’Keefe included as a second spinner. Australia are embarking on their first Test tour of Sri Lanka in five years, as part of a two-month series that also involves five one-day internationals and two Twenty20s. [caption id=“attachment_2796000” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] Mitchell Starc returns from an injury layoff. Reuters[/caption] Henriques was an unexpected choice, returning for the first time since 2013 with pacemen Pattinson and Peter Siddle both ruled out with back injuries. Nathan Coulter-Nile was also included in the 15-man squad for the July-August Test series, along with O’Keefe who was picked for last summer’s final Test against the West Indies but overlooked for their two-match tour to New Zealand on green, seaming pitches. Pace spearhead Mitchell Starc returns to Test cricket after a six-month injury absence. “This squad has proven experience in sub-continental conditions,” said national selector Rod Marsh. “Henriques comes into the squad to give the flexibility of an additional all-rounder option, having already shown he plays and adapts well to spin-friendly conditions. “He has been working hard with his fitness and we believe he is in prime condition to serve us well should he be selected to play.