Australian team management has rested all rounder Shane Watson for the next three one-day internationals against England in order to keep him fresh for the upcoming Test tour of South Africa, starting February 12.
All-rounder Dan Christian has been brought into the squad for the ODI matches in Brisbane, Sydney and Perth.
Watson will rejoin the squad for the final match in Adelaide on Australia Day.
Coach Darren Lehmann said seeing Shane's workload in the past 12 months it was decided to give him a longer break so that he can continue his training program at home in Sydney ahead of the final ODI and the tour of South Africa.
Watson's workload is being closely monitered and he bowled just 13.4 overs in the final two Ashes Tests and five overs in Australia's victory over England at the MCG last Sunday, News.com.au reports.
