'That's why we love him': Peter Siddle backs James Pattinson's aggression despite ban
Veteran Australian paceman Peter Siddle urged suspended teammate James Pattinson not to abandon his aggression despite being hit with a ban.
Pattinson pleaded guilty to a level two code of conduct breach for abusive language during Victoria's Sheffield Shield clash against Queensland last week, and was banned for one match as a result of a third code of conduct breach in 18 months.
As a result, the 29-year-old paceman will miss the opening Test of the summer against Pakistan at the Gabba which starts on Thursday.
While he conceded that the incident was disappointing for both Pattinson and Australia, he backed his teammate, saying that Pattinson was at his best when he toed the line with his aggression.
James Pattinson appeals for a wicket in the first Ashes Test. PA/AAP
"I think everyone has seen that when he is at that sort of level that it probably does bring a lot better cricket out of him," he said.
"He's always going to be a player that's going to be pushing the line. His brother did the same thing when he played for Victoria back in the day.
"It's just a part of the game. That's why we love him. That's why Australian cricket loves him.
"Everyone has little slip-ups. It's disappointing, especially as a mate to see him have to miss a Test match.
"But like I said, it's a big summer, four more Tests will follow and hopefully he can play a part in those ones."
Siddle said that Pattinson's suspension could help him stay fresh throughout the Test summer Getty
While Pattinson's suspension is a blow for Australia, Siddle explained how the ban could prove to be a positive for the remainder of the summer.
"It mightn't be a bad thing in a way. Give him another week off and he'll be ready to go from then on," he said.
"It's an emotional game. Sometimes you go a bit too far and that's what happens, the emotion comes out, but that's because you care. It's not because you're trying to do anything stupid.
"He cares about the game, he cares about the team and wants to get results. We know how much, if he did get selected, that he would do well out there, but that's what he's got to deal with. He's got to miss this Test and that'll hurt him enough."
