Siddle glad to be back in Test side
CRICKET: A seasoned veteran in a team bursting with new faces, Peter Siddle might have been the most excited person in Australia’s dressing rooms as he prepared to mark his longawaited Test recall.
The 33-year-old ended a twoyear Test exodus with a dogged performance in punishing conditions on day one of the first Test against Pakistan in Dubai.
With the temperature nudging 39°C and the road-like pitch offering little assistance, Siddle reinforced his workhorse reputation and was rewarded with the key wicket of centurymaker Mohammad Hafeez in the final session.
The hosts had remained in control at 3-255 at stumps but Siddle’s near-flawless final spell of 1-4 off five overs proved crucial in helping to keep Australia in the hunt. He then took an early wicket on day two yesterday.
His return to Test cricket comes almost 10 years to the day since he departed for India for his first Australian tour, and he relished seeing Aaron Finch, Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne make their debuts.
“To see these young boys getting presented their caps and the excitement they had in the lead-up, it’s been exciting for me not just being around the group but seeing them up and about and getting another opportunity,” Siddle said.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Australia again in the last few years but I’ve concentrated on just performing wherever I played.”