Finally, some good news for Symmo

Andrew Symonds will probably heave a sigh of relief. The burly Australian, in the dock for his wayward ways, may just get back into the team based on his past performances. Luckily for him, the latest incident will not be held against him, said Australian selector Jamie Cox on Thursday.

On the eve of the first one-dayer against Bangladesh, Symonds went fishing instead of attending a compulsory team meeting. The Australian team management, reacting swiftly, sent the star all-rounder back home, raising doubts over the Queenslander’s return to the national fold.

However, Cox, accompanying the Australia A team here, had some good news for the allrounder. "The disciplinary action against Symonds has been taken by the players, who are part of the leadership group, with help from Cricket Australia. As for his selection, as and when he is made available, we will not judge him by this incident but by his performance as a player. It is the performance that counts," Cox said.

Cox, hoped Australia’s hunt for a spinner will end with this tour. "Yes the spinners we have here — (Bryce) McGain, Beau Casson and Jason Krejza — have done well in the domestic championship back home. There are a few spots in spin as well as pace, but you don’t find easy replacements for (Shane) Warne and (Glenn) McGrath."

Age has never been criteria for selection Down Under, and Cox stressed on that again.

"Look a 34 or 35-year-old is still in the prime of his life and can do things that a 24-year old does.

"But yes, if we think that the particular player’s ability on the field in terms of his athleticism is being affected by his age, then it does become a factor. But as long as he performs the roles that are expected of him, then it doesn’t matter," Cox noted.