Ben McDermott replaces Chris Lynn in Australian PM's XI

Canberra, Jan 13 (IANS) Australian batsman Chris Lynn has been ruled out of the Prime Minister’s XI squad to take on England in Canberra on Tuesday.

Lynn complained of soreness in his right knee following Saturday night’s Big Bash match at the Gabba between the Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Stars. He will undergo tests and will be monitored in the lead-up to the Heat’s next match on Saturday.

As a result, fellow Queenslander Ben McDermott will replace Lynn in the Prime Minister’s XI squad, joining elder brother Alister.

National Talent Manager Greg Chappell said of McDermott’s selection: “Ben McDermott is a talented young batsman who turned 19 just last month. He was recently added into the Brisbane Heat squad and is a member of Australia’s Under 19 squad, so he is definitely one to watch.

“McDermott will benefit greatly from an opportunity to play in the Prime Minister’s XI, and is in contention to represent Australia in the Under 19 Cricket World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, starting next month.

“McDermott is also a promising wicketkeeper, however Peter Handscomb will assume wicketkeeping duties for the Prime Minister’s XI,” Chappell concluded.