The Ashes 2013-14: Australia include George Bailey and Mitchell Johnson for the upcoming Ashes

George Bailey

George Bailey, the Australian ODI captain who had a tremendous series in India with the bat, has finally broke into the Australian Test squad for the upcoming Ashes series.

James Faulker, the all rounder who impressed one and all with his prowess with both bat and ball has also been included as has Mitchell Johnson. Ryan Harris, and Peter Siddle would pair up with the fast left-armer while Nathan Lyon retains his position as the lead spinner in the squad. Shane Watson, too, has found a place in the squad despite being hampered by a hamstring injury in the last ODI in India.

However, it was the  selection of George Bailey that has stirred up a controversy in the Australian media. Bailey had a terrific run of form in the ODIs against India but has failed to score the big runs in domestic cricket over the past one year. Bailey, 31, has scored 6011 runs at 38.28, including 14 centuries in his first class career but his lack of form in the longer format, last season, made Alex Doolan, his fellow Tasmanian, a prime contender over him. For Tasmania last year, Bailey scored only 256 Sheffield Shield runs at an average of 18.28.

“It was certainly discussed at great length last night. Alex Doolan is a very highly-regarded player in our eyes … George Bailey has been in fantastic form with the bat. His confidence is riding high. His performance in international one-day cricket has been quite extraordinary and he’s very deserving of his opportunity.”  - John Inverarity, the chairman of the selection committee explained.

Australian Squad: Chris Rogers, David Warner, Shane Watson, Michael Clarke (capt), Steve Smith, George Bailey, Brad Haddin (wk, vice-capt), James Faulkner, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris, Nathan Lyon.