Test leg spinner Stuart MacGill has today been named captain of a new-look New South Wales team for this week's vital ING Cup match against South Australia.

MacGill, fresh from a seven wicket haul in the Third Test against South Africa and inclusion this week in the Australia 'A' one-day team, has been elevated to the Blues' leadership position in the absence of Shane Lee and Michael Bevan.

Lee, the regular captain, is expected to be sidelined from cricket for a period of four weeks after undergoing surgery on his injured knee yesterday. Vice-captain Bevan, meanwhile, is unavailable for state duties on account of commitments with the national one-day side.

In a 13-man squad, the state selectors also included two players who have not previously appeared for the Blues in one-day cricket. Dominic Thornely replaces fellow young all-rounder Aaron O'Brien, while upper order batsman Brett van Deinsen has been named as Bevan's replacement. Off spinner Anthony Clark is the other player to be omitted from the team which suffered a two wicket defeat at the hands of Victoria last Sunday.

The Blues lead the competition standings with 18 points from six matches but will struggle to hold on to that spot if they lose to the fourth-placed Redbacks.

The match will be played at Coffs Harbour on Saturday.

The full side is: Stuart MacGill (Captain) Nathan Bracken, Shawn Bradstreet, Stuart Clark, Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Mark Higgs, Don Nash, Corey Richards, Graeme Rummans, Dominic Thornely, Brett van Deinsen.

© 2002 CricInfo Ltd