Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has returned to the domestic circuit - albeit in a coaching capacity. The wicketkeeper-batter has been out of the public eye since he decided to leave the leadership position at the Australian cricket team.
Paine was caught in the dead centre of the lewd text controversy and chose to take an indefinite break from the national team. Considering that he was supposed to make a comeback in the Ashes series after his neck surgery, it is improbable that the 37-year-old will be able to break into the national team. However, Paine has never come out and deliberated on the same.
Speaking to the press, interim Tasmania coach - the side Paine plays for the domestic circuit - stated that Paine has been helping out the Tasmania squad and he has been around the group for a while now.
“...It's been great to have him around the group. It's been a nice little distraction for him, I guess, to spend some time with us. He's been great with our young players,” said the coach.
Asked about Paine’s playing future, he stated that Paine has not thought that far ahead and is just enjoying his re-entry into the group.