Haddin, a mainstay of the Australian side since Adam Gilchrist's retirement has not pulled on the baggy green since Australia clashed with India in January of this year. Haddin missed the bulk of that series due to family reasons which opened the door for Wade to take his place behind the stumps. Wade has not looked back and will be looking for a big series against the Proteas to cement his position.
National selector John Inverarity said of 24 year-old Wade, "He kept and batted very well and made a match-defining brilliant century in the second innings of the third and final Test against West Indies. Since then he has played and gained valuable experience in England, the UAE and Sri Lanka. As a young player, getting better by the month, he is thoroughly deserving of his retention."
Selectors unveiled their twelve man squad on Tuesday with very few surprises, other than perhaps the inclusion of Ed Cowan who has struggled for form in recent months. Cowan will open the batting along with David Warner followed by the experience of Shane Watson, Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke and Michael Hussey.
Nathan Lyon was the only spinner selected alongside the four pronged pace attack of James Pattinson, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc and Ben Hilfenhaus. The speedsters will be licking their lips ahead of the clash on what should be a pace-friendly Gabba wicket.
The Australian team have a momentous task ahead of them to topple the South Africans and reclaim the mantle of number 1 test nation. The South African team is oozing with proven performers including captain Graeme Smith and pace veteran Dale Steyn. It is exactly the sort of challenge the Aussies need before the all important Ashes series.
Adam Schoenmaker is a high school chaplain in the northern suburbs of Brisbane for three days each week and serves two days a week in his local church. Adam loves a good book, a classic album and all Queensland sporting teams.
Adam Schoenmaker archive of articles can be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/adam-schoenmaker.html