Symonds could return to Australia side for next match

BASSETERRE, St Kitts, Mar 15 (Reuters) All-rounder Andrew Symonds could return to the Australia side for Sunday's World Cup Group A match against the Netherlands in preparation for the key clash against South Africa on March 24.

Australia captain Ricky Ponting told a news conference after his team's 203-run win over Scotland yesterday that Symonds, who is recovering from a torn right bicep muscle, had informed him he was ready to play against the Scots.

''He's getting seriously close,'' Ponting said. ''There will be some discussion this week about him playing the next game against the Netherlands.

''We will just have to see how he comes along. He's got a bit of work to do yet, he's just starting rolling his arm over.

''The next three days, if he is going to play in the Holland game, will be crucial for him.'' Reuters DH VP0450