Bichel spent most of his time as a reserve in waiting after making his first Test appearance almost six years ago.
He finally secured a regular place in the Test squad during the 2002 series against Pakistan in Sharjah and has been a model of consistency since then.
One of the fittest players in the side, Bichel found himself in the position of senior seam bowler during the recent one-day series in India when injuries sidelined Glenn McGrath, Jason Gillespie and Brett Lee.
His most memorable perfomance came, however, during the World Cup earlier this year when he took 7-20 and then made a crucial 34 not out to help his side beat England in Port Elizabeth.
Competition for places is intense with Brad Williams and Nathan Bracken now in the squad and age could eventually count against 33-year-old Bichel, but he has every intention of prolonging his international career.