Symonds returns to Australian squad

Melbourne, Nov 10 (UNI) Volatile all-rounder Andrew Symonds today made a comeback to the Australian squad for the Emirates All Star Twenty20 match in Brisbane, starting from Friday.

Cricket Australia's Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland said in a statement released today that the Queensland all-rounder, who was dumped from the side after the 'gone-fishing' saga, has successfully completed the prescribed welfare process and his return was a result of much hard work on his behalf.

''I have been in regular contact with Andrew over the last month or so. He has made significant progress during his enforced lay off and we are happy that he is now available to be selected for Australia again.

''I know Andrew has had a very strong desire to fight his way back into the Australian team and I am confident that desire will be reflected in his actions over the coming months,'' Sutherland said.

However, National Selection Panel Chairman Andrew Hilditch said he was too happy to see Symonds back.

''Cricket Australia advised the NSP late last week that Andrew Symonds had completed the welfare process he has been undertaking over recent times and it was with great pleasure that we were able to select him for this game,'' he said.

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