Gilchrist believes IPL teammate Symonds will play in Ashes

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Melbourne, Apr 12 (ANI): Adam Gilchrist has backed Indian Premier League teammate Andrew Symonds to continue his rebirth and force his way into Australia's squad for the Ashes.

Symonds has been picked in Australia's one-day squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan and the preliminary squad for the Twenty20 World Cup in signs the selectors are willing to forgive his tumultuous summer.

Gilchrist believes the troubled match winner's Test career is not over either. Symonds has not represented his country since the Boxing Day Test against South Africa.

The Queenslander has undergone counselling for personal problems after a season that was marred by alcohol-related controversies, poor form and injury FOX Sports reported.

Gilchrist and Symonds flew to South Africa this week to prepare for Deccan Chargers' opening IPL match next Sunday.

"He'll see any cricket he plays as an opportunity to get out there and show his worth and hopefully get on that trail back into the Australian team," Gilchrist said.

"He's too valuable a player not to have in and around the team."

Gilchrist said the 33-year-old all-rounder could be a vital part of the Ashes defence in July and August. (ANI)