Stoner appointed Ducati test rider

Former Honda MotoGP rider Casey Stoner (L) of Australia is pictured in the Honda MotoGP team garage during the first practice session for the Australian MotoGP on Phillip Island, October 17, 2014. REUTERS/Jason Reed

(Reuters) - Retired twice MotoGP world champion Casey Stoner will be a test rider for Ducati next season, the Italian manufacturer said on Monday.

The Australian, who left the sport at the end of 2012, won his first MotoGP title with Ducati in 2007 before moving to Honda and taking his second in 2011. Ducati have not won a grand prix since he left.