Brad Hodge sympathises with Glenn Maxwell, selectors

The Australian selectors' decision to leave out batting all-rounder Maxwell from the squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates has generated a lot of talk.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting expressed disbelief over the call, and Hodge joined him in voicing support for Maxwell. But the Victoria legend also sympathised with the selectors.

"It just goes to show that it's a hard hole to fill, even when you're missing (Steve) Smith and (David) Warner," Hodge told Macquarie Sports Radio on Friday, 14 September.

Hodge knows Maxwell's pain well, having played just six Tests for Australia despite scoring over 10,000 runs at 45.34 in the Sheffied Shield. He is in the perfect position to understand Maxwell's disappointment at missing out even after scoring 707 runs in the last Shield season at 50.50.

"It is disappointing ... for Maxwell to be out of the side," said Hodge. "Unfortunately for Maxi, he probably hasn't been given an extended run or a great opportunity.

"He's a cricketer (who) you want in your side. He bats, bowls and fields and he's a good team man."

The two-Test series will begin at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on 7 October.