McGrath in Australia squad

Paceman Glenn McGrath has been named in the Australia squad for next month's Champions Trophy in India.

The 36-year-old has not played since January due to his wife's cancer scare, but will get his wish to prepare for the upcoming Ashes series by playing international, rather than domestic, cricket.

"We've decided that the best way for Glenn to make his way back into international cricket is to play international cricket," chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch told www.cricinfo.com. "We believe the combination of the Malaysian tri-series and the Champions Trophy is ideal preparation for what will be a huge summer of cricket for Glenn."

While McGrath returns, batsman Matthew Hayden misses out despite making the 18-man squad for the tri-series.

The veteran will make way for Adam Gilchrist, who takes over the vice-captaincy from Michael Hussey, while Mark Cosgrove, Dan Cullen, Phil Jaques and Brad Haddin have also been axed from the squad chosen for Malaysia.

"We've picked a strong squad which blends experience with some younger talent," Hilditch added.

"Australia have been successful in one-day internationals for a long time, but we haven't won the Champions Trophy and we've picked a side that we believe is capable of winning it."