NSW left-hander Usman Khawaja and Tasmanian swingman Ben Hilfenhaus have been named in the Australian Test squad to face Pakistan in two Tests in England.
Khawaja's promotion to the 13-man touring party arrives after a spot was opened up by a shoulder injury to Phil Hughes, while Hilfenhaus returns after proving he was over knee tendonitis.
"Ben Hilfenhaus has successfully returned from injury during the current Australia A series in Queensland," said chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch.
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"Ben was a critical member of our 2009 Ashes bowling group and it is very pleasing to see him back in the Test squad with the next Ashes series just around the corner.
"The unfortunate injury to Phillip Hughes has created an opportunity for another batsman to join the squad for these two Test matches against Pakistan.
"Usman Khawaja has been selected on the back of some very strong Sheffield Shield performances.
"He is seen by the National Selection Panel as being capable of batting anywhere in the order in Test cricket, but importantly for this particular series a top-order batsman who could bat in the top four should the opportunity arise."
Brad Haddin was also picked in the squad despite a tennis elbow complaint that only allowed him to start batting this week.
Squad: Ricky Ponting (capt), Michael Clarke, Doug Bollinger, Brad Haddin, Ryan Harris, Nathan Hauritz, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Usman Khawaja, Marcus North, Steven Smith.
