Edwards ready for international return

Fidel Edwards, the West Indian fast bowler, is all set to return to international cricket after recovering from a back injury which had kept him out for eight months. Edwards last played a Test in August 2004 against England, but has been named in West Indies' 12-man squad for the third Test against South Africa in Barbados, which starts on April 21.

"I'm targeting everybody, no special cases," Edwards was quoted as saying in The Nation. "I just want to get back in the team and get a good start. I'm excited. My job is to take wickets and I'm ready to do my job. We are 1-0 down and we are under a bit of pressure but I believe we have the quality to win in Barbados and square the series."

Edwards stormed the international scene with an outstanding debut against Sri Lanka in 2003, taking 5 for 36 to help West Indies win at Kingston. However, since then he has struggled a bit, and only has 39 wickets in 15 matches. In his four previous Tests against South Africa, he's managed just eight wickets at an exorbitant average of 81. Edwards comes into the third-Test squad as a replacement for Pedro Collins, who has been sidelined due to a back injury.

"I have been working very hard in the nets and I feel ready and fit after working to get back over the last eight months," he continued. "I am also happy to be back and working with our new coach Bennett King, and to be back with all of the guys. I am coming with the hope of taking a lot of wickets."