Wade return ‘won’t force out Paine’

MATTHEW Wade’s anticipated return to Tasmania will not squeeze out wicketkeeper Tim Paine from the state’s cricket line-up, as management considers a reshuffle of players.

Australian gloveman Wade will leave Victoria and head to his hometown of Hobart ahead of the 2017-18 domestic season but is unlikely to be available for first-class duty if his national selection continues.

Paine, who made a return to the XI late in the Tigers’ dismal Sheffield Shield season, is one of many out-of-contract players for the island state but Cricket Tasmania spokesman Andrew Dykes said the 32-year-old remains a valued squad member.

“Tim Paine is a required player,” Dykes said.

“His Matador Cup – oneday – form has been very strong again and he finished off the season well with the Tigers’ Shield team.

“He didn’t get the score I know he was after but his keeping, his leadership and his batting showed good signs for the future.”