Watson to miss Sydney, Perth ODIs against England

Shane Watson will miss the third and fourth Carlton Mid ODI Series matches in Sydney and Perth against England and re-join the squad for the final ODI in Adelaide, the National Selection Panel announced Thursday.

"Given Shane's workload in the past 12 months we consider it would be beneficial for him to have a longer break and continue his training programme at home in Sydney ahead of the final ODI and the tour of South Africa," coach Darren Lehmann said.

"Dan Christian, who has been in excellent form in recent weeks, has been added to the ODI Squad to provide an all-round option in Shane's absence."

Christian will join the Australian squad at training in Brisbane.