Forgotten paceman Chris Tremain insists he's not upset about missing out on a dream Test debut this summer, saying it could be a blessing in disguise.
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Tremain's Test debut was within reach in November after being selected in Australia's 14-man squad for the series against India.
Not only was he unable to break through for a Test, the 27-year-old also missed out on a big chunk of the BBL season while staying on the fringes of the national set-up.
In fact, Tremain didn't play cricket for almost six weeks before making his return on January 17 in a three-day practice match against Sri Lanka.
Tremain has since played two matches for his BBL franchise the Melbourne Renegades - and he has been quick to remind fans what they've been missing out on.
In Monday's 78-run win over the Scorchers in Perth, Tremain produced his finest T20 display on the way to figures of 3-9 from four overs.
Tremain missed out on a place in the squad for the current two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with selectors preferring Jhye Richardson.
Richardson starred in the first Test with figures of 3-26 and 2-19.
Tremain was philosophical about missing out on the Test action this summer, saying it has helped refresh his battered body.
"It's really cool that in Australia we have no shortage of fast bowlers," Tremain said.
"We have three of the best in the world or up there with the best in the world (in Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood).
"Then on the sidelines we've got Peter Siddle biding his time, and then Jhye Richardson got his opportunity and did extremely well.
"I can't be too bitter or grumpy about it, because who's spot are you going to take? There's five names right there that I'd have to wait (for them) to fall over and leapfrog."
Tremain knows he faces a challenge to stay fit during the back end of the Sheffield Shield season.
"I had probably 10 games off, which wasn't so bad after six Shield games where I was sort of struggling and labouring a little bit through those last couple of games," Tremain said.
"(I get) perpetual niggles. I've had backs, knees, hammies, quads - point at a body part and I've had it. It's a bit of an issue."
The Renegades (7-5) will be back in action on Wednesday when they host the Sydney Thunder.
Australian Associated Press
