Tuesday, 16 April 2019: James Pattinson's return to the Test set up is a step closer after earning a national contract and being picked in the Australia A squad to play in England.

James Pattinson

It appears only a matter of time before James Pattinson stops being the forgotten member of Australia's pace armoury and returns as a Test bowler.

Pattinson was arguably the biggest winner of Cricket Australia's day of mass squad announcements on Monday, recalled to the national contract list.

He was also called up to the Australia A squad for this year's tour of England ahead of the Ashes, pulled out of county cricket despite the selectors' decision to leave a number of other candidates plugging in the club competition.

"I can't guarantee he will be in the Ashes squad but I think being in the contract list at least gives an indicator we are very keen on Patto," selector Trevor Hohns said.

"Because at his best he is very exciting and he could form a formidable fast-bowling quartet with the other three guys.

"We're hoping he can stay fit and be available for the Ashes if an opportunity arises."

Once part of the dream team of Aussie quicks with 70 wickets in 17 Tests, Pattinson's run of injuries has virtually coincided with Pat Cummins' return to fitness.

The 26-year-old hasn't played for Australia since early 2016, and has since been struck down by back injuries.

However he returned to form for Victoria in this year's Sheffield Shield, and is now having his workload continuously monitored by Australian officials while playing for Nottingham in county cricket.

"We don't want him for a short time now, we want him for a long time," Hohns said.

"And he has certainly been told that so he understands the situation.We have high hopes for Patto in his comeback.

"Everyone is cooperating and I'm sure his program will be mapped out accordingly to suit everybody."