After a fortnight long drama and debate, Andrew Symonds has been left out the Australian team which will be touring India later this month. CA has made a clear statement that they will not tolerate any nonsense stuffs even if it is from a senior player which is a pretty good move. But then I personally feel that they’ve gone a step further as he had already been sent home during the Bangladesh series which in itself is a great insult.

What this has done is that the Australians will be without one of their better weapons against the Indian spinners. The very fact that Symonds has averaged about 77 in the last 12 months of test cricket displays the genuine touch he is in. Also, this line up will be short of another spinner in Symonds as he is very capable with the bal specially when the wicket helps him.

This opens up the spot for Shane Watson who would want to grab this opportunity with both hands. What a chance for him to flourisha the test level? This is soemthing that he was looking forward to. There are loads of fresh faces in this Australian team and the surprise inclusion has been that of the 36 year old leg spinner, Bryce McGain. This is not quite the Australian style. He is making his debut and obviously must be talented enough to make it to the big level. McGain has been the best bowler in the last season and his success has earned him the spot.

Just take at look at this Australian squad. In this, only four members (Matthew Hayden, Ricky Ponting, Simon Katich, Michael Clarke) were a part of the previous team that toured India.

Squad : Matthew Hayden, Phil Jaques, Ricky Ponting (capt), Michael Hussey, Michael Clarke, Simon Katich, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin (wk), Brett Lee, Jason Krejza, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Bryce McGain, Stuart Clark, Doug Bollinger