OPENING bowler John Hastings' early season form with Worcestershire has grabbed the attention of Australia’s selectors.

The 31-year-old has been picked in Australia's 15-man squad for this summer's ICC Champions Trophy.

Now Hastings will miss at least Worcestershire's Specsavers County Championship Division Two matches against Sussex and Glamorgan.

Director of cricket Steve Rhodes said the County would "look into" the possibility of bringing in a short term replacement."

Rhodes said: "I'm delighted for John. He has had a long haul back from his injury and it's great he's got another opportunity at international level.

"We will miss him for a couple of games but we will deal with it and we are always pleased when someone gets picked for their country."

The Champions Trophy takes place in the UK from June 1 to 18 and Australia are in the same group as England, Bangladesh and New Zealand.

Hastings last played for Australia’s one-day team against South Africa at Port Elizabeth in October.

Hastings has played 28 one-day internationals for Australia, taking 40 wickets, and has overcome a nasty knee injury which he picked up in the winter.

Hastings said: "I'm delighted to be called up. I've always said I'd love to play for Australia again and never thought I was done at international level especially in the white ball format.

"Test cricket has probably passed me by although you never know. I've been to one World Cup and to be part of the Champions Trophy will great.

"I'll miss a couple of games with Worcestershire but there is a lot of cricket to be played before then and hopefully I can help us to be in a good position."

Hastings played in Worcestershire’s opening Specsavers County Championship Division Two victory at Glamorgan.

He has previously played County Cricket with Durham and won a recall to Australia's one-day squad against England in 2015 after the selectors wanted cover for a spate of injuries.

The bowler was not just conveniently placed, he was in impressive form and an ever-present for Durham in all three competitions until his call up.

He took 76 wickets in all competitions for Durham in 2014 and 2015 but shoulder surgery ruled him out of action for the whole of last summer.

Hastings has also played nine T20 internationals for Australia, one Test and was part of Australia's 2011 World Cup squad, although he did not play in the competition.

The Penrith-born player has also featured in both the Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash.

Hastings is looking forward to locking horns this summer with fellow Australian bowlers Clint McKay, who is at Leicestershire, and James Pattinson, who is at Nottinghamshire.

“Clint, James and me lived together when we were a lot younger and we will probably go pretty hard on each other on the field and then be good mates when we come off.”

He added: “I knew Phil Hughes had been here and Steve Smith before that because I had done my research into the club.

“I want to do well at Worcester, take wickets and more importantly win games of cricket. If I am not taking any wickets and we’re winning, then I will still be happy.”