Watson in doubt for first test after injuring hamstring

SYDNEY, Nov 17 (Reuters) Australian all-rounder Shane Watson could be a doubt for next week's first Ashes test after injuring a hamstring playing for Queensland against Western Australia in Perth today.

Watson was bowling the first ball of his sixth over for Queensland when he pulled up sharply, clutching the back of his right leg.

He spoke with his captain Jimmy Maher before limping from the ground, raising doubts about his availability for the first Ashes test, starting in Brisbane on Thursday.

A Queensland team spokesman said Watson would travel to Brisbane tomorrow to be assessed by the Australian team's medical staff.

Watson was included in a 13-man Australian squad as a counter to English all-rounder Andrew Flintoff and was expected to bat at number six.

If he is unavailable, Australia's selectors may have to look for another specialist all-rounder such as Andrew Symonds or go with an extra bowler or batsman.

The injury scare is the latest in a series of health problems that have restricted Watson's career to just three test appearances.

REUTERS PM BD1439