Castro back for Gilas Pilipinas in crucial duel vs Iran

Photo by Tristan Tamayo/ INQUIRER.net

The Philippine team gets a shot in the arm with the return of Jayson Castro against Iran on Monday night in the fifth window of the Fiba World Cup Asian qualifiers at Mall of Asia Arena.

Castro’s comeback couldn’t be more timely with Gilas Pilipinas in a must-win situation against a mighty Iran side following a stunning loss to Kazakhstan on Friday.

The 32-year-old Castro, one of the best point guards in Asia, missed Gilas’ last three games due to a three-game suspension for his involvement in the ugly brawl against Australia at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan five months ago.

Forward Troy Rosario is also making his return to the national team after serving his three-game suspension and so is Arwind Santos, who is donning the Philippines’ colors for the first time since 2009.

The Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas announced the 12-man roster Sunday afternoon.

Joining the three returnees are Japeth Aguilar, Beau Belga, June Mar Fajardo, Marcio Lassiter, Gabe Norwood, Christian Standhardinger, LA Tenorio, Scottie Thompson and Matthew Wright.

Standhardinger, the Fil-German big man, will be the Philippines’ naturalized player this time after guard Stanley Pringle led the team against the Kazakhs.

Castro, Rosario and Santos meanwhile, replaced Alex Cabagnot, Greg Slaughter and Poy Erram.