Peter Siddle is aiming to be back in action near the start of the Big Bash League season.
A flare up of an old back injury ruled Siddle out of both the Hobart and Adelaide Tests, but he has progressed well in his recovery.
“I’m hoping (to return) as soon as possible,” Siddle told SEN Breakfast.
“I’ll have another scan next week and see how it goes. I’m back training and fitness-wise, I’m feeling good.
“Boxing Day, not ruling that out (for a return) but if not there, then it’ll be with the Renegades and start the season with a bit of T20, which will be nice.”
With a roster jam-packed full of talent, the Renegades are hoping to better last season’s finish when they just missed the finals.
“We’ve got a couple of West Indians again this year,” Siddle said in explaining the international signings.
“Dwayne Bravo has been a regular with the side and he’s back again, he’s been a great performer for us.
“We’ve signed his little mate, spinner Sunil Narine. He’s an exciting T20 player, he flicks them around with his fingers and the ball goes everywhere, so he should be exciting.”
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In addition to the two West Indians, the Australian core of the side is still an impressive one.
“We’ve got a great lot of local talent as well, and that’s the thing that makes us so strong,” Siddle said.
“Cam White’s in some great form, Aaron Finch up the top, Ferg (Callum Ferguson) is back from his knee now and playing some good cricket.
“We’ve got Matty Wade and (Peter) Nevill, both of them so there’s plenty of opportunities for players to perform well and we’ve got a great list, so that’s exciting for this season ahead and hopefully some success along the way.”
Heading into BBL|06, the competition continues to grow at a rapid pace.
As a player who was around when the T20 competition started as state v state, Siddle is well placed to talk about its growth.
“When it first started, with the state based competition, it was more a bit of fun at the end of the year to break it up.
“Once it went to the franchises, and the BBL started, it’s become very big and the boys look forward to it.
“It’s such an exciting time of the year. Some players who may never get to play at the international level (but) can be a part of some big crowds and big games.”