Peter Siddle makes stunning return to Australian Test side
What's the story
Veteran Australian pace bowler, Peter Siddle, has made a surprise comeback to the national side for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. The 33-year-old had last played an international Test match back in 2016. After a two-year gap, he finds himself back in the scheme of things. With Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins injured, the experience of Siddle will come handy.
Siddle
Siddle's return brings experience to the side
Siddle has featured in 62 Tests for Australia and has 211 wickets to his name. His last Test was against South Africa at Perth in November 2016. Australian management and coach Justin Langer want some leadership voice in the squad and Siddle's return to form could not have come at a better time. This is like a second innings for the bowler.
Thoughts
Siddle lays out his philosophy
Siddle has been in supreme form for County side Essex and that played a huge role in his selection. "My philosophy has always been not to worry too much about what the selectors are doing. For me, it's just about going out and enjoying my cricket, whether for Victoria or Essex," Siddle said after getting the call-up.
Conditions
Siddle needs to be patient in UAE
Siddle will know that a solid outing against Pakistan will help him in being on the radar of selectors for the big series against India, later this year. UAE will assist batsman and Siddle will be wanting to use all his experience and be patient in conditions that will be on offer. Siddle has put in the work in England since last season.
Details
Squad, schedule and TV listing
Australian squad: Tim Paine (captain, wicket-keeper), Ashton Agar, Brendan Doggett, Aaron Finch, Travis Head, Jon Holland, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc. The first Test starts October 7 and the second match will be held from October 16-20. The matches will be shown live on the Sony Ten Network.