Melbourne: Australia have recalled wicketkeeper Tim Paine for the first time in seven years in a selection bombshell while dropping opening batsman Matt Renshaw in a surprising Ashes squad for the series against England.
The 32-year-old Paine, who played the last of his four tests in October 2010, has been included in a 13-man squad for the opening two tests, replacing the out-of-form Matthew Wade and denying Peter Nevill a spot.
In peculiar circumstances, Paine has not been considered the premier wicketkeeper for his state side Tasmania, with Wade taking the gloves in the domestic Sheffield Shield.
Paine comes into Steve Smith’s side after scoring a half-century against England and keeping for the Cricket Australia XI in the tour match in Adelaide.
“Tim was identified as an international player a long time ago and has always been renowned as a very good gloveman, also performing well for us whenever he has represented Australia in any format,” said selector Trevor Hohns.
“His batting form in recent outings for the Cricket Australia XI and Tasmania has been good.”
Pundits were quick to query the decision.
