Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine is set to return to play first-class cricket for Tasmania in the 2022-2023 season following fruitful discussions with Cricket Tasmania CEO Dom Baker, sen.com.au reported on Monday.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The 37-year-old, who had stepped down ahead of the Ashes series last year in the wake of the sexting scandal involving a former Cricket Tasmania official, has reportedly started training over the last couple of weeks.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The report said the wicketkeeper-batter looked "fresh" and has shown "excellent touch" after such a long layoff.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Paine's playing career was thought to be over after he was omitted from Tasmania's list of contracted players in May this year and it seemed unlikely he would find a route back into the team. After taking time away from cricket following his captaincy resignation, Paine returned to the Tasmanian cricket fold in an unofficial coaching role late last season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
His playing future remained uncertain until the release of Tasmania's contract list in May, with his on-field career appearing to have ended after 35 Tests and 147 first-class matches.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Paine last played for Tasmania in a second XI game in late November, 2021 as he attempted to prove his fitness for the Ashes after undergoing a complicated neck surgery. He was in the squad for the Marsh One-Day Cup game for Tasmania on November 26 but announced on the morning of the match that he was going on an indefinite break.<\/p>\r\n\r\n