Cricket: Symonds given chance to shine

Andrew Symonds. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - Andrew Symonds, Brett Lee and Shane Watson have been named in Australia's 14-man squad for the limited overs series in the United Arab Emirates starting on April 22.

Symonds returns after a tumultuous summer that included knee surgery, a prolonged form slump and several off-field incidents.

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said it was up to the Queenslander to "seize this opportunity" during the Pakistan series that includes five one-day matches and one Twenty20 fixture.

"Andrew Symonds has been cleared by Cricket Australia to resume playing for the Australian cricket team and he has been included in the squad," he said.

"At his best Andrew is a dynamic one-day player with an outstanding record for Australia. It will now be up to him to seize this opportunity."

Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson and captain Ricky Ponting will all be rested for the six-match series to be led by Michael Clarke with Brad Haddin stepping in as vice-captain.

Hilditch said the trio had been rested because of their "immense" workload before the four-month tour of England this year.

"Having Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey in prime form mentally and physically for the Ashes is critical and the series against Pakistan is the only opportunity to give them an appropriate break prior to the start of a very important period," Hilditch said.

"Mitchell Johnson is now a key bowler in all three forms of the game for Australia and we've also taken this opportunity to provide him with a break before he commences preparation for the World Twenty20 and Ashes."

Watson will play as a specialist batsman as he recovers from back stress fractures but Hilditch said he may be able to bowl later in the series.

Hilditch said that the inclusion of Lee, who is on the way back from ankle and foot surgery, is subject to fitness.

The squad will meet in Johannesburg on April 18 before departing for Dubai.

AUSTRALIA

Michael Clarke (captain), Brad Haddin, Nathan Bracken, Callum Ferguson, Brett Geeves, Nathan Hauritz, Ben Hilfenhaus, James Hopes, David Hussey, Ben Laughlin, Brett Lee, Shaun Marsh, Andrew Symonds, Shane Watson.

- AAP