Symonds likely for Deccan's next match

Australian allrounder Andrew Symonds could start playing for the Deccan Chargers in the IPL as early as Saturday, as he looks to fly out of Dubai on Friday, a day after the Twenty20 international against Pakistan. Symonds will have to reach Kimberley in South Africa for Deccan's next clash against Kings XI Punjab.

Among the contingent currently in the UAE, Brett Lee (Kings XI Punjab), David Hussey (Kolkata Knight Riders), Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals), Nathan Bracken (Royal Challengers Bangalore) and James Hopes (Kings XI Punjab) are also expected to joint their IPL franchises from Saturday.

"Andrew has obviously missed a lot of cricket in the last little while, and he's keen to get out there and play as much as he can," Matt Fearon, Symonds' manager, said. "He has loved being back and performing with the Australian team, and he is looking forward to getting over to South Africa to join the boys at Deccan."

Symonds was recalled to the Australian team after a couple of suspensions for off-field behaviour. He scored 58 and took 2 for 12 to guide his team to a six-wicket win in the second ODI against Pakistan in Dubai, a breakthrough performance after fearing the series might be his last as an international.

Australia had held on to their players till the end of the Pakistan series, but are now keen for them to play in the IPL ahead of the World Twenty20 in England next month.

"We aren't standing anyone down from going to the IPL after the Pakistan series," Andrew Hilditch, the Australian chairman of selectors, said.