Biography

Just as he stepped onto the international arena in 2008-09, Peter Siddle became a victim of the fast bowler's curse that halted his well-begun bowling career in 2010. A career-threatening stress fracture was reported on his back. However, he managed to recover, albeit taking a long time.

The right-arm speedster lived up to his nickname, "Vicious", as he was Victoria's most able and destructive bowler. With an ability to swing the ball, Siddle was a threatening force to reckon with, and destroyed one opposition after another. The promising domestic bowler impressed with his performances in first-class cricket and was soon included in the Australia A side that subsequently called for his Test inclusion. With an electric run-up, strong delivery and a bounce that worried most batsmen, Siddle made his Test debut against India in 2008. Stellar performances at home were followed by an incredible South African tour, where he displayed his class in the series that Australia eventually won, taking 12 wickets. His ODI debut followed soon, as he appeared against New Zealand in 2009.

Foot injuries, coupled with shoulder woes resulted in Siddle spending more time off the field, than on field. However, he came back in the team even stronger, posing a threat to the batsmen in the 2009 Ashes, with 29 Test wickets in six matches against the Proteas, at a staggering average of 27.65. With decent displays of his form, Siddle continues to be one of the strike bowlers in the Aussie line-up.

With injuries constantly obstructing his promising career, Siddle decided to stick to a vegetarian diet since 2013. Plenty of doubts were raised on possible effect on stamina but he managed to overcome all hurdles.