Symonds left out of Ashes squad

Louise (Admin) · Posted: Wed May 20, 2009 8:05 am Post subject: Symonds left out of Ashes squad

CRICKET:

Troubled all-rounder Andrew Symonds was overlooked for Australia's squad for this year's Ashes series in England after the national selectors opted for youth over experience.

Symonds, who turns 34 next month, was ditched in favour of the younger Shane Watson and Andrew McDonald in a predictable 16-man squad for the five-Test series starting in July.

"I think the selectors have definitely got it right," Australia captain Ricky Ponting said. "I think we've got a great balance of youth and experience...and I'm really excited about the prospects of a great series."

Australia have been steadily rebuilding their squad in preparation for the Ashes after a spate of high-profile retirements since their 5-0 thrashing of England in 2006-07.

The selectors experimented with a range of new players before seemingly to have settled on the right combination during their recent tour of South Africa.