New Delhi:
Australian cricket legend Jason Gillespie has backed veteran fast bowler Peter Siddle as a potential inclusion in Australia’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup squad, should one of the frontline seamers suffer an injury before the tournament. Gillespie said the nature of T20 cricket — which heavily relies on short-term planning and adaptability — makes Siddle a practical and valuable option under the right circumstances.
Gillespie’s support came while responding to a journalist’s post on X, which praised Siddle’s fitness and discipline. The journalist wrote, “Peter Siddle is a very good advertisement for getting off the grog and cycling everywhere.” Agreeing with the sentiment, Gillespie highlighted how Siddle’s continued performance proves his readiness.
Currently 41, Siddle has been in outstanding form in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL), where he is the leading wicket-taker this season. Representing the Melbourne Stars, he has already picked up 10 wickets in just five matches, boasting an impressive average of 13.60 and best bowling figures of 3/23.
Gillespie wrote on X, “Would not be the worst option should one of the seamers get injured before the T20 WC. If there is a format that short-term (here and now) thinking is ok, it’s T20.”
Peter Siddle retired from international cricket in 2019, but his legacy at the highest level remains remarkable. He claimed 221 wickets in 67 Test matches, including eight five-wicket hauls, and is famously remembered for his sensational birthday hat-trick against England at the Gabba in 2010. That moment made him only the ninth Australian to achieve a Test hat-trick.
He was also a crucial part of Australia’s dominant 5-0 Ashes victory during the 2013–14 series. Beyond Tests, Siddle represented Australia in 20 ODIs, taking 17 wickets, and also appeared in two T20 Internationals, where he picked up three wickets.
With the T20 World Cup approaching, Gillespie’s endorsement has sparked conversation over whether experience and current form should outweigh age when it comes to team selection.