Hogg optimistic about dream comeback

Sydney, Jan 22(ANI): In-form left-arm spinner Brag Hogg is optimistic about a dream call-up to the Australian Twenty20 squad following his recent performances for Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League.

The 40-year-old, who last played for Australia almost four years back, hopes he has done enough to convince Australian selectors to call him back for national duty.

Hogg has been the star performer in the Big Bash League this year and has taken 12 wickets at an average of 13.5.

He took 2-17 off four overs motivating the Scorchers to an 11-run win over Melbourne Stars in Saturday night's semi-final at the WACA Ground.

Australia's squad for the two Twenty20 against India in February would be announced on Monday.

In a move to enhance his chances for a call-up in the Australian Twenty20 squad, Hogg will play in the newly launched Bangladesh Premier League and has also made himself available for auction in the Indian Premier League.

"I think my smile says it all," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Hogg, as saying after he was questioned regarding his chances of receiving a call-up for the Twenty20 series against India.

"Since there's been talk of me playing for Australia and the World Cup coming up, I took those opportunities (of IPL and Bangladesh) to put my name down, just to make sure I'm playing as much cricket as possible."

Hogg is also eyeing for a place in the Australian Twenty20 squad for the Twenty20 World Cup scheduled to take place this year.

"There's no point selecting me if I'm not playing any Twenty20 cricket. But if I'm playing cricket against good competition at the highest level over the next six months, then at least I'm trying to stay in as much form as possible," he added. (ANI)