Jason Gillespie called up for Australia's VB Series squad

Jason Gillespie has been drafted into the Australian squad for the VB Series, it was announced this evening.

It is hoped the Southern Redbacks fast bowler will link up with Stephen Waugh's side in time for the second match of the tournament, against South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Sunday 13 January.

Gillespie replaces the injured Brad Williams, who fractured his right thumb while batting in the 23-run loss to New Zealand at the MCG on Friday evening.

Gillespie has recently returned to action with Australia A, playing in victories over both the New Zealanders and South Africans, after missing the second and third Tests of the Orange Test series against South Africa with inflammation of rotator muscles in his right shoulder.

The 26 year-old claimed 3-31 on Saturday as the Southern Redbacks beat the New South Wales Blues by 114 runs in an ING Cup match at Coffs Harbour.