Jawai gets Boomers recall for qualifiers

Giant centre Nate Jawai is a late call up for Australia's basketball World Cup qualifiers against Iran and Qatar in Melbourne over the next week.

The 32-year-old Jawai replaces Perth Wildcats big man Angus Brandt who was ruled out due to an ankle injury.

Cairns Taipans veteran Jawai previously represented the Boomers at the 2009 Oceania Championships and at the 2014 World Cup in Spain, where he averaged 4.4 points and three rebounds per game.

"Nate's response when I called him was one of genuine excitement and pride to again be wearing the Boomers uniform," Australia coach Andre Lemanis said.

"He has had a wonderful NBL season so far and his inclusion in to the 12 is recognition of that."

An imposing presence, Jawai could play a crucial role against Iran on Friday after a physical battle between the teams' front courts when they last met in the 2017 Asia Cup gold medal game.

The match against Qatar follows on December 3.