 Langer's absence means another chance for WA team-mate Hussey |
Australia opener Justin Langer is out of next week's second Test against West Indies in Hobart with the broken rib which sidelined him for the first game. Langer has improved after suffering the injury playing for Western Australia but says he is not ready to play.
The Aussie team will be named this week and Mike Hussey, who took his place for the Brisbane win, is likely to keep it.
"It is disappointing to miss a Test match but I have to consider the best interests of the team," Langer said.
"Whilst I continue pushing so hard to be right, I am not allowing myself to heal.
"It is different from past injuries in that the bone is actually broken. I need to give it a break and allow it to mend so that I can be ready for the rest of the season."
The 34-year-old's injury ended a run of 53 consecutive Test appearances dating back to August 2001.
Hussey made scores of one and 29 in the first Test as Australia cruised to a 379-run win.
All-rounder Shane Watson will also miss out in Hobart after suffering a shoulder injury at the Gabba which could keep him out for up to two months.
Leg-spinner Stuart MacGill is expected to be brought in by the hosts, who are strong favourites to clinch the series before the final game in Adelaide, which starts on 25 November.
MMIX
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