Michael Hussey to skip IPL

Michael Hussey has joined the growing list of Australian players to withdraw from Indian Premier League, preferring to spend time with his family before the packed international schedule. Captain Ricky Ponting, vice-captain Michael Clarke and pace spearhead Mitchell Johnson are also not playing in this year's IPL.

Michael Hussey has joined the growing list of Australian players to withdraw from Indian Premier League, preferring to spend time with his family before the packed international schedule.

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Hussey said he had negotiated with his IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings to skip the five-week tournament starting on April 18 in South Africa.

"I just spoke to the franchise and asked for the time off to be with family as my playing schedule has been very busy and they were very understanding," Hussey said.

"But I am available if we make the semi-finals (on May 22 and 23) and final," Hussey was quoted as saying in The Australian.

Australia's ODI series against South Africa started on Thursday and finishes on April 17, followed by the Pakistan series, Twenty20 World Cup in June and Ashes in July.

Australia's selectors may also decide to rest the 33-year-old batsman - who has averaged only 23.00 in his past eight Tests this summer - from the ODI series against Pakistan in Dubai.

Captain Ricky Ponting, vice-captain Michael Clarke and pace spearhead Mitchell Johnson are also not playing in this year's IPL.