Hodge returns to Australia fold
October 10, 2012 12:44:35 UK
Veteran batsman Brad Hodge will captain Australia in the Hong Kong Sixes later this month.
The 37-year-old, who retired from one-day domestic cricket back in January but continues to feature for Rajasthan Royals, Melbourne Stars and Barisal Burners at Twenty20 level, will also coach the seven-man squad.
I think it will be a great learning experience for all of us.
Brad Hodge
Hodge played six Tests for Australia and averaged over 55 while he also featured in 25 one-day internationals between 2005 and 2007.
"I'm excited about it, especially because it's been a long time since I've put on the Australian colours," he said, of the two-day tournament held over 27-28 October.
"I'll be taking on a bit of a mentoring role as coach and captain and I look forward to sharing my knowledge with the guys, particularly with someone like Meyrick Buchanan, who's still only a teenager but has been very impressive so far. I think it will be a great learning experience for all of us and a good opportunity to find a bit of form before the start of the Big Bash League."
Big-hitting batsman David Warner starred at the 2010 event, which Australia won, and received his first ODI call-up shortly afterwards.
This time, Australia are blooding Buchanan, 19, along with Cameron Borgas, who turned out for the Netherlands in English domestic cricket in 2012, former Derbyshire player Travis Birt, Tim Armstrong, Theo Doropoulos and Steve Paulsen.
Australia's national talent manager Greg Chappell said: "We have a good mix of youth and experience in this squad and the younger squad members will benefit from Brad Hodge's presence as captain/coach.
"Australia has a good record in Hong Kong and this tournament has exposed the talent of the likes of David Warner in the past. No doubt Brad will be keen for his team to acquit themselves well."
The Melbourne Stars are 4.33 to win the Big Bash, while the Perth Scorchers are 1.61 and Brisbane Heat are at 2.30.
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