Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley would ‘love to see’ Tim Paine make a return to cricket.
Following the recent sexting scandal, Paine announced he would be taking a break from cricket for the "foreseeable future."
A tearful Paine was forced to resign as Australia skipper on the eve of the Ashes after details emerged of lewd text messages he sent to a female former co-worker at Cricket Tasmania four years ago.
While it appeared Paine would remain part of the squad to face England despite no longer being its leader, the Australian cricketer decided to pull out of the series altogether.
Now Hockley has commented on Paine’s absence and said he hopes to see him represent the national side sooner rather than later.
“Absolutely, we would love to see Tim play again for both his state and for Australia,” he told SEN Test Cricket. “We want to see him back out there playing and performing as quickly as possible.”
Earlier this week, spinner Nathan Lyon and batter Marcus Harris both said Paine had the team's "full support".
"The selectors said they were going to pick the best available XI," Lyon said. "In my eyes, Tim Paine is the best keeper in the world."
Hockley added that the board is very much committed to supporting Paine and his family during "an incredibly difficult time".
“It’s obviously just a really, really difficult situation,” Hockley said. “Let’s not forget that it was Tim’s decision to step aside and that was a decision the board felt was appropriate.
“He’s been an exemplary captain throughout his three years, done a phenomenal job and it’s just a very, very difficult situation.
He continued: “While he’s made a big mistake, he’s owned it, and he’s stepped aside to prioritise and look after his family.
“We’ve really sought to support him. Everyone really wants to support him as best we can.
“He made a big mistake, he served Australian cricket as captain supremely well over the last number of years, he’s paid an enormously high price.
“We’re all very, very concerned to make sure Tim is well supported.”
Despite Paine’s absence, Australia are in control of the first Ashes test, as Travis Head struck a magnificent hundred to help the Ashes holders to 343/7.
David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne's impressive 100+ partnership added to Australia’s lead of 196 runs after England were bowled out for just 147.
