Siddle, Haddin return for T20

Paceman Peter Siddle and wicket-keeper Brad Haddin return to Australia’s squad for Twenty20 match with Sri Lanka.

SYDNEY: Paceman Peter Siddle and wicket-keeper Brad Haddin have returned to Australia’s squad for next weekend’s Twenty20 match with Sri Lanka after injury.

Siddle is available for Sunday’s game after a lengthy rehabilitation from a back injury, while Haddin has returned to fitness following an elbow complaint. The latter’s return meant there was no place available for wicket-keeper Tim Paine, who played in the Test and one-day series in India this month.

“It’s exciting to see the return of Siddle and Haddin,” said chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch. “Siddle is a key bowler and is now ready to take his place in the Twenty20 squad. It is unfortunate for Paine to miss out but Haddin has made a very good recovery and is an established member of our side in all forms of the game.”

Hilditch said the squad assembles some of Australia’s best young talent as they broaden their experience. He said senior Australian players Mike Hussey and Mitchell Johnson were not considered for the T20 ahead of the Ashes series squad selection.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 26^th, 2010.