Siddle, McGain left out of Victoria's T20 Champions League opener

Victoria has elected to pass over Test bowlers Peter Siddle and Bryce McGain for its opening match in the Champions League Twenty20 tonight.

The team has sprung a surprise by selecting specialist fielder and batsman Glenn Maxwell at No.8 for the match against South Africa's Warriors at their home St George's Park stadium, while John Hastings, the most-used bowler of all of last season, will also feature in the Bushrangers' side.

Peter Siddle, returning from back stress fractures, has been overlooked for match one of the Bushrangers' Champions League campaign, as has fellow Australian Test bowler Bryce McGain and emerging paceman James Pattinson. All, however, are considered strong chance to play at least one of the team's four matches in this tournament.

Victoria today plays South Africa's Warriors at their home ground of St George's Park at Port Elizabeth, one of three home venues for the Champions League.

VICTORIA SQUADS:

Brad Hodge

Rob Quiney

Aaron Finch

David Hussey (c)

Andrew McDonald

Matthew Wade

Glenn Maxwell

John Hastings

Clint Mckay

Shane Harwood

Dirk Nannes.