Damian Cudlin to stand in for Hector Barbera at Aspar Ducati in Australian Grand Prix

Barbera sustained a fractured collarbone when he crashed early in last weekend's Motegi race, and has now been ruled out of the Phillip Island event.

Cudlin had made his MotoGP debut in Japan after being given a surprise call-up to deputise for the injured Loris Capirossi at Pramac Ducati. Despite having never ridden a MotoGP bike or raced at Motegi before the event, Cudlin impressed with how close he came to the midfield regulars' pace and was running 12th when he crashed out.

"It's another fabulous chance," said Cudlin. "I honestly can't believe it yet. A week ago I raced for the first time in MotoGP and it was already a real shock. I had never raced at Motegi before and I had to learn a lot of things in a very short time. We had a lot of work.

"After that experience I'm sure that at Phillip Island I will start the grand prix at a higher level. I know the track and that will help me get there with a lot of confidence."

Barbera had surgery on his collarbone in Barcelona's USP Dexeus hospital on Wednesday. A plate and screws were inserted to help the multiple breaks heal, with the operation carried out by regular MotoGP surgeon Dr Xavier Mir.