The Australian off-spinner, who played in 17 Tests and 58 ODIs from 2004 till 2010, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

Australian state side New South Wales lost two more top players to a rival on Friday, with former Test players Usman Khawaja and Nathan Hauritz joining reigning Sheffield Shield champions Queensland.

Out-of-favour Australia off-spinner Nathan Hauritz underwent a facial surgery after being hurt in a night club brawl recently in Hervey Bay, Queensland.

The International Cricket Council on Tuesday approved Indian speedster S Sreesanth's inclusion in the India's World Cup squad while also confirming Callum Ferguson and Jason Krejza as replacements in the Australian side.

Australia were today dealt a severe blow ahead of their World Cup title defence after batting mainstay Michael Hussey and spinner Nathan Hauritz were ruled out of the mega-event due to injuries.

Ricky Ponting is set to start training after a one-month injury lay-off while Nathan Hauritz is hoping to get back into action at the earliest.