Sydney: Aussie all-rounder Andrew Symonds, who was sidelined from the team over his attitude problems especially after he went fishing instead of attending a team meeting in West Indies, is officially back into his national side as he had reportedly been called for this Friday''s Twenty20 exhibition match against an All-Star team in Brisbane.

Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive James Sutherland said Symonds had done what was necessary off the field to earn his way back. “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," The Age quoted Sutherland as saying.

He added: “When he is up and firing, he is one of the very best players in the world and I''m delighted that he will play in the All-Star Twenty20 this Friday and wish him well. Like his many fans around Australia, we''re very much looking forward to having Andrew back. 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."

Meanwhile, according to the paper, Australian captain Ricky Ponting, pacemen Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson and Stuart Clark will be rested from the game.

Express fast bowler Shaun Tait was also named in the Australian team, the first step back towards international cricket for the South Australian after he took a break from the sport in January citing stress and exhaustion.

Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist will lead the All-Stars, whose squad includes former Australian opener Justin Langer.

 ANI

Tags: andrew symonds, gond fishing saga, australia, ca, cricket australia.