Symonds could so easily have been lining up in the blue of England, but is instead in the green and gold of Australia.
The English-born all-rounder, who is also an excellent fielder, opted for the land of his upbringing after declining a place on England's A tour in 1995.
The gamble has since paid off, and although he has never worn the baggy green at Test level, Symonds has more than 50 one-day caps to his name.
But in that roll-call of appearances, there is one glaring omission.
Symonds did not make the squad for the last World Cup, and having made the grade this time, despite a recent lack of consistency, he will be intent on forcing his way into the starting XI.
With the ability to bat anywhere in the order, and bowl anywhere in an innings, Symonds is a captain's dream.