Hayden cleared for Christchurch

Matthew Hayden will play in the first Test against New Zealand on Thursday after recovering from a shoulder injury suffered two weeks ago at Christchurch. Hayden was passed fit after completing four net sessions over the past two days and will open with Justin Langer at the same ground in the match starting on Thursday.

"He's pulled up well without too much discomfort, and is now set to play," Alex Kontouri, the team physiotherapist, said. Hayden strained the AC joint taking a diving catch from Chris Cairns on February 22 and the slow-healing injury forced Australia to keep Mike Hussey on the tour once the one-day matches finished.

Hussey will return to Brisbane to play in Western Australia's vital Pura Cup match against Brisbane at the Gabba on Thursday. Brad Hogg, who was part of Australia's 5-0 series victory, has also been selected in the Warriors squad. Hayden's recovery clears up one place in the order, but there is still doubt over the make-up of the bowling attack with Jason Gillespie, Brett Lee and Michael Kasprowicz battling for the two spots alongside Glenn McGrath.