Tait ready for first-class comeback

Shaun Tait is expecting to return to first-class cricket for South Australia's opening Sheffield Shield game following his successful tour of India with Australia A. Tait is back at home in Adelaide after collecting six wickets at 18.16 from four games as Australia A wrapped up the one-day tri-series against teams from India and New Zealand.

The matches were his first since walking away from cricket in January, when he cited mental and physical exhaustion. Tait's promising efforts on the challenging India trip have convinced him that he is ready for a full return to the first-class arena.

"I should be fine, ready to go first game," Tait told the Advertiser. South Australia's season begins with a one-day match against Victoria at Adelaide Oval on October 12, followed by a Sheffield Shield match also against the Bushrangers that starts two days later.

Tait could hardly have been given a tougher place to make his comeback than in India, where his sometimes injury-plagued body was rigorously tested. But he came through the trip well and starred in one match against India A, when he picked up 3 for 27.

"It was tough conditions, hot and the wickets weren't exactly bowler friendly," Tait said. "We all played well and the performances were pretty good. I am over all the bad injuries. I still get a bit sore in the elbow and that sort of thing but if you ask fast bowlers around the world they are all pretty sore.

"The elbow is 100% fine for bowling and throwing. Mentally I am absolutely fine. The body being healthy and fit helps mentally as well."

During Tait's absence, Australia have picked other fast bowlers including Ashley Noffke, Doug Bollinger and Peter Siddle for Test tours. Tait believes his best chance for an international return is in the one-day arena, but Australia's chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said he would remain in the Test frame if his domestic performances were up to scratch.

"He hasn't been pigeon-holed, that is for sure," Hilditch said. "Australia A is important for him and is a good lead-in to the season. He is an explosive bowler, India was going to be good experience for him. It all depends how he starts the domestic season."