He’s in his richest vein of form in two years, but snubbed wicketkeeper Brad Haddin says he knew “a long time ago” his Australian career was probably over.

Overlooked for the opening Test of the summer against South Africa, Haddin on Tuesday wore a brave face as he returned from leading the Sydney Sixers to their Champions League triumph in South Africa.

He claimed the selectors’ decision to stick with Matthew Wade – who scored a century when called in to replace Haddin for the tour of the West Indies in May – was not a surprise.

“The decision to go this way was made a long time ago,” said Haddin, who returned from the West Indies before the first Test when his daughter fell seriously ill.

“It wasn’t made overnight.

“This is not a shock. Life goes on.”

At 35, Haddin’s international future looks decidedly bleak, with the 24-year-old Wade firmly entrenching himself as Australia’s No.1 keeper in all forms of the game.

Chairman of selectors John Inverarity said Haddin remained the next cab off the rank should anything befall Wade, despite the re-emergence of Tasmanian gloveman Tim Paine.

Asked if he still harboured hope of getting back in the Test XI, Haddin said: “I just hope to continue improving as a cricketer and all that stuff will take care of itself in due course.

“I’m here if they need me – they know that.”

“He (Wade) deserves his opportunity and he’s played well since he’s come into the Australian team.

“I wish all the boys luck. It’s going to be a massive series against South Africa and, with a bit of luck, the result at the end is (Australia) No.1 in the world.”

Australia’s loss could well be NSW’s gain, with Haddin admitting he was hitting the ball better than he had in years.

He scored a century – his first in first-class cricket in almost two years – against Tasmania in September before several impressive knocks during the Champions League.

He said retirement was not yet in his thoughts.

“It’s about performing for NSW – it’s no different to where I stood at the start of the year,” Haddin said of his mindset heading into the summer.

“I’m just enjoying playing cricket again. Things are good.

“I think my batting back to where it was two years ago. I’ve ironed a few things out which I’m pretty happy with.”