Adelaide Strikers captain Peter Siddle says they are excited to welcome back Ashes duo Travis Head and Alex Carey for the do-or-die BBL11 Finals clash against the Hobart Hurricanes on Friday night.
The Strikers are priced at 14/1 to go all the way and win the Big Bash and the return of Head and Carey could not be more timely for them.
Huge boost
Siddle has been quick to praise the Strikers players who have done so well to get them in to finals in the absence of the duo, but says everyone is excited to have them back.
Head was named man of the series as Australia smashed England 4-0, while Carey also impressed on debut after replacing former captain Tim Paine behind the wickets.
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Both players will be buzzing after winning the Ashes and the Sixers are hoping that winning mentality can help spur them on to glory in the Big Bash.
"It’s exciting for all of us to have those guys back. They had such an amazing series during the Ashes," Siddle told reporters.
"They’re buzzing. They’re excited for us being in the finals and getting the opportunity to join us, so I think that buzz is going to be great for the group. They’re just looking forward to getting out there and putting on a show."
Tough selection calls
The duo returning means someone will miss out and unfortunately stand-in wicketkeeper Harry Nielsen will be one of the players to make way.
"Sadly, I think it’s going to be him that will miss out," Siddle added. "His work behind the stumps is outstanding. He’s done another terrific job for us and it is disappointing that he will miss."
