Symonds included in Cup squad

New South Wales wicketkeeper-batsman Brad Haddin was also included in the Australian squad, partly as cover for veteran Adam Gilchrist who will miss warm-up matches ahead of the tournament to be with his wife, Mel, who is expecting their third child.

Tearaway fast bowler Shaun Tait and all-rounder Shane Watson also won squad places after taking minor roles in this month8217;s limited overs tri series against England and New Zealand.

Tait won the final seam bowling position ahead of Stuart Clark in what chairman of selectors Anrew Hilditch described as 8220;an attacking move8221; attuned to the West Indies8217; predicted slow pitches.

8220;We think the squad is capable of winning the World Cup for a third consecutive time,8221; Hilditch said.

8220;We are still the best side in the world in our view.8221;

THE SQUAD

Ricky Ponting captain, Adam Gilchrist, Nathan Bracken, Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Brad Hodge, Brad Hogg, Michael Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Glenn McGrath, Andrew Symonds, Shaun Tait, Shane Watson.