Victorian batsman David Hussey and NSW pacemen Nathan Bracken and Stuart Clark have lost their Cricket Australia (CA) contracts.
That trio, along with Victoria’s Brad Hodge and South Australian wicketkeeper Graham Manou, have all been removed from the 25-player contracted list for 2010-11 announced on Wednesday.
The newcomers are quicks Ryan Harris and Clint McKay, wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine, allrounder Steven Smith and batsman Adam Voges.
Those five players all started the 2009-10 period without CA contracts, but picked them up by the end after receiving sufficient upgrade points during that time.
Veteran paceman Brett Lee retained his contract, despite his recent injury and form struggles, while fellow speedster Shaun Tait is also still on the list despite his status as a virtual Twenty20 specialist.
The list was assessed based on the players’ form over the past 12 months and the likelihood of Australian selection over the coming year.
All contracted players will receive a minimum $200,000 retainer, plus match fees, tour fees and prize money for any on-field success.
“Shaun Tait has had his contact renewed as we see him as an important member of the ICC World Twenty20 squad and a real chance to force his way back into the Australian 50 over side. At his best he is a powerful weapon in limited overs cricket,” selection panel chairman Andrew Hilditch said.
“It is disappointing for Stuart Clark and Nathan Bracken who have not received contracts for 2010-11. Both Stuart and Nathan have fantastic records for Australia and not renewing their contracts was a very hard decision.
“The reality is that other bowlers have seized the opportunity over the last six months in both Test and limited overs cricket.
“… David Hussey is also very unlucky not to receive a contract after a very successful domestic season and is part of our ICC World Twenty20 squad.
“The outstanding form of our 50 over one-day side over the last 12 months meant that he narrowly missed a contract this year.”
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