Family affair for recalled Maxwell

Glenn Maxwell's return to the Test arena was extra special for parents Neil and Joy, who are present in Abu Dhabi having missed the allrounder's first two Tests.

Maxwell, who came into the side at the expense of Tasmanian Alex Doolan, last wore the Baggy Green in India in 2013.

In his exclusive cricket.com.au video blog, Maxwell spoke with his father about the shared joy that has come with his return to the Test side.

"It's a massive thing for my parents to be here after missing the first two Tests of my career so it's nice of them to actually turn up for the third," Glenn joked.

Neil replied: "It's fantastic. We've tried to follow you a couple of times but it hasn't quite worked out, you haven't actually been selected, but at least we're actually here for this one. I cannot say how proud we are of you actually making this 'debut for us'."

The 26-year-old, who took seven wickets and scored 134 runs in the four limited overs matches that preceded the Tests, played both of his two Tests to date on Australia's tour of India last year.

He debuted in the innings and 135-run defeat against India in Hyderabad last year, playing as a frontline spinner alongside Xavier Doherty.

He was dropped for the next Test before he was recalled for the final Test in Delhi as Shane Watson captained Australia.

In that match, Maxwell achieved the rare feat of opening the batting and the bowling in Australia's second innings.