Brad Williams to return to Australia

Fast bowler Brad Williams will return to Australia following his stint as a cover-player on the 2003 Travelex Tour of the West Indies.

The Western Australian, who was selected as a replacement for fellow quick Glenn McGrath at the beginning of the tour when McGrath returned home to be with his wife Jane, will depart Barbados today (Tuesday 6 May).

Although Williams' original selection had been as a straight swap for McGrath, he remained on standby with the squad for the third Test.

Chairman of the National Selection Panel Trevor Hohns said: "With only one Test remaining in the series and limited selection opportunities, it made little sense for Brad to remain with the squad when he could return home to be with his young family.

"He has acted as cover with the Australian squad on a number of occasions now, so we hope this experience will assist in his development as a quality bowler who can compete at the international level.

"The role of cover isn't an easy position to fill, but Brad made a fantastic contribution to the side while in the West Indies, and his efforts were greatly appreciated," said Hohns.