Published on 12:00 AM, September 12, 2018

Siddle recalled for Pak Tests

Photo: Reuters

Australia named five uncapped players in a raw tour squad to play Pakistan in a Test series in the United Arab Emirates, while recalling pace veteran Peter Siddle for the first time in two years and dropping middle order batsman Peter Handscomb.

With injuries having gutted the pace stocks and suspensions ruling out former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, selectors have filled the holes with a mix of unproven talents and well-travelled journeymen.

One-day international specialist Aaron Finch, 31, will have his chance for a Test debut in the October matches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, along with Queensland's South African-born duo Michael Neser, a pace bowling all-rounder, and batsman Marnus Labuschagne.

Another Queensland cricketer in rookie fast bowler Brendan Doggett joins the Mitchell Starc-led pace battery which will lack injured regulars Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins.

Warhorse Siddle is back after nearly two years in the freezer - his last Test being a home fixture in Perth against South Africa in November, 2016.