One of the country's finest left-handed batsmen, Nic Maddinson, has shifted camp into New South Wales to get back into his element ahead of the upcoming season for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. In a sense, this was treading a path to find some form again, which would enable him to make his way back into the Test team for Australia.

It's been a rollercoaster ride for Maddinson. He made his Test debut in 2016 but never really felt he had cemented his place in the national side. Refreshed by a rejuvenated sense of purpose and burning desire to succeed, he is more determined than ever to make a lasting impression.

Recent performances in the Sheffield Shield, where he has managed to get three centuries in as many matches for Victoria, have just reignited hopes of a Test comeback. These brilliant performances showed he can adapt to different conditions and play varieties of roles.

"I think about it most days to be honest," Maddinson admitted. "When you're training with the likes of Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc it's hard not to think about the progression of your career. I love playing the game and want to help New South Wales win, but also from a personal point of view I still feel like I offer something at international cricket."

Maddinson believes that he is a far better player than when he made his Test cricket debut. He has matured, gained experience, and developed more belief in himself. His strong performances in last season's Sheffield Shield were evidence of his growth as a batsman.

"I'm probably a much better player than I was even three or four years ago," he said. "The runs I scored last year have given me a lot of confidence. To be able to adapt and play a different style is crucial as you look to progress your career."

It hasn't been all easy for Maddinson. He had a difficult time with the willow during the last Big Bash League season and eventually dropped off the Melbourne Renegades team for poor form. However, that's a hard way to learn, and he's determined to come good on his experiences.

"I've been pretty disappointed with how I've been since I left the Sydney Sixers," he confessed. "I really found it challenging going into BBL off not much cricket last season, having had such a long break. For me, what's important is having a decent block of longer-form cricket to channel into BBL and then expand your game from there."

Joining Sydney Thunder presents him with the opportunity for a new life. Maddinson will play with fellow left-hander David Warner, whom he had known since his teenage years, and the opportunity to open the batting with Warner is one that particularly excites him.

"I think I opened with him for the very first time when I was 16 in a 2nd XI game," Maddinson recalled. "To think we could be batting together again, it's been quite a long time. That top order with Cam Bancroft, Ollie Davies, and Sam Billings is quite a nice-looking line-up."

As much as Nic Maddinson enters this new career phase, he is confident and determined for his career. He can do so much at the domestic and international levels with his talent, experience, and never-say-die attitude.