Siddle dumped as Agar, Cartwright offered contracts

SYDNEY: Fast bowler Peter Siddle and batsman Shaun Marsh were the biggest names to miss out as all-rounders Ashton Agar, Hilton Cartwright and paceman Billy Stanlake received their first Australia national contracts on Monday.

The list of 20 men’s players offered deals for the 2017-18 season on the basis of their performances over the past 12 months was released on Monday by Cricket Australia.

All-rounder James Faulkner, wicketkeeper Peter Nevill, Marsh, spinner Steve O’Keefe and 62-Test veteran Siddle, who last played in November, were all overlooked.

“Hilton has thoroughly earned his spot in the list this year,” chief selector Trevor Hohns said, adding that he was the second highest runs scorer in the Sheffield Shield last season.

“He is an exciting prospect for Australian cricket and we look forward to seeing him perform for Australia in the coming 12 months, if given his opportunity.”

Hohns also praised Agar as “a talented young player who we consider offers a fantastic package withhis batting, bowling and fielding”.Tall Queensland paceman Stanlake is seen as one for the future.