Klinger, 36, called into Aussie squad

CRICKET MICHAEL KLINGER is in line for an international debut for Australia at the age of 36.

Klinger’s maiden call-up is a fitting reward for his outstanding domestic career in first-class, one-day and T20 cricket.

The selection of Klinger for three T20s with Sri Lanka later this month comes after he was the third-leading run scorer in this summer’s Big Bash.

He is also the all-time leading run scorer in BBL cricket, with 1,608 runs at an average of 36.54.

And he is in prime form after playing a key role in Perth Scorchers being crowned the 2017 Big Bash champions.

He smashed an unbeaten 71 off 49 balls to see his side home although his a long-awaited call-up comes at a time when a string of first choice players are unavailable due to the tour of India.

Klinger will be Australia’s secondoldest debutant in any format in the past 30 years, with only Bryce McGain older on his 2009 Test debut.

National selector Trevor Hohns said: “Michael Klinger has been a very good player in this form of the game for some time now.

“He has a history of strong performances in T20 competitions in the UK and in the BBL, including the matchwinning innings for the Perth Scorchers to secure this year’s BBL title.”

Perth coach Justin Langer, who will stand in to lead Australia, says Klinger warrants a chance at the top level.

Langer said: “Michael has shown over so many years what a champion he is. I know it would be a dream come true for him.”