SYDNEY (Reuters)
Australian captain Steve Waugh, recovering from illness and injury, will play only one club game ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, which starts at Brisbane on November 8, according to an Australian radio station.

Waugh had previously stated his desire to play for New South Wales in their inter-state four-day match against South Australia in Sydney, starting on October 26. However, an Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio report said that Waugh has announced he will miss that match and play for Bankstown, his Sydney club, on November 3.

Waugh, 36, who missed the fourth Test against England in August because of a calf injury, returned to captain his side in the fifth Test at The Oval, and scored 157 not out as the injury deteriorated.

Waugh, who was prescribed blood-thinning medication for a blood clot in his left calf, had not picked up a bat for six weeks until going into the nets in Sydney this week.

Meanwhile, Australian fast bowler Brett Lee took a step forward in his bid to prove he has overcome a side strain injury by taking 3 for 49 for his Sydney club, Mosman.

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