Ponting rested for two one-dayers

Ponting has played 307 ODIs for Australia

Australia skipper Ricky Ponting will be rested for his side's next two one-day internationals against New Zealand.

Australia are 1-0 down in the five-match series following a two-wicket defeat in Perth on Sunday and have lost five of their last six ODIs.

Batsman Shaun Marsh has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, so Adam Voges and uncapped South Australia batsman Callum Ferguson come in.

The next two matches are in Melbourne on Friday and Sydney on Sunday.

Australia chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said: "Naturally, as Australian captain, Ricky is keen to play every game and these next two games were no exception.

"However, it was always planned that Ricky would have a break at this time.

"While this is a difficult decision, given the current performance of the team, in our view it is essential that Ricky has an opportunity to prepare for the forthcoming South Africa tour given his immense workload since the India tour in September last year.

"We believe that this group can get the job done against New Zealand. Adam Voges has been recalled after limited opportunities in the past and Callum Ferguson has been added for the first time to an Australian squad.

"Both are exciting young players with the attitude and talent to succeed at this level."

Australia were replaced by South Africa as the number one one-day side in the world following their recent 4-1 series defeat to the Proteas.

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Australia squad: M Clarke (capt), M Hussey, N Bracken, C. Ferguson, B. Haddin, B. Hilfenhaus, J. Hopes, D. Hussey, M. Johnson, S. Tait, D. Warner, C. White, A. Voges.