The two phoenixes of Tasmanian cricket have been praised by state boss Nick Cummins after helping Australia rise to victory in the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston.
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Once seemingly lost to international cricket, Matthew Wade and Tim Paine reached new heights by posting significant milestones in the 251-run win.
Playing his first Test since 2017, Wade scored his first Test ton in more than six years and celebrated at the crease with his fellow statesman, who went on to record his first Ashes win as captain.
Paine also contributed three catches and a quickfire 34 in the second innings to bring up his 1000th Test run.
"It was fantastic," Cummins said.
"It wasn't great for my sleep patterns but to stay up and watch Wadey make 100 and to do it as an all-Tasmanian combination ... to be honest it's a terrific vote of confidence for our program.
"Three years ago Tim Paine was about to retire and Matthew Wade was playing for Victoria, so the fact that they're playing for Australia, and in Painey's case playing at all, is a great testament to Adam Griffith and the men's program.
"In both instances at some stages they probably thought their international career was over, so for them to get back they've been extremely dedicated.
"I think all Tasmanians have felt that Matthew Wade's selection particularly has been overdue, so it was great that selectors backed him and that he repaid them in kind with a great innings that set up a terrific win."
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