Usman isn't the sort of player who suits number six in a batting lineup. If they really want to back their new players then Marsh should be brought in and Usman should be pushed further up, but in order to do this then somebody has to go. Let's have a look at the current top five.
Watson is undroppable. That much is clear. Even if he never makes a hundred.
Hughes is both talented and unorthodox, a potent combination. He looked very capable in difficult conditions the other night. For all the criticism he's had a pretty good short career so far, aside from his short-of-a-length mental block against English bowlers. Any of his deficiencies can be overcome at such a young age. I am glad to see him being picked.
Clarke - the captain. Also looks to be finding some form again. Fireproof.
Mike Hussey is still looking awesome. Got top-class hundreds against England at the Oval, Brisbane and Perth, and his 95 on a minefield looks to have secured this test match. It's good to see Australia finally planning for life after him, but he's still Mr Cricket.
It pains me to say it, but Ponting is the one holding back the young players. I'm not sure how he is viewed now vis a vis selection - are they giving him this one series, has he been told he gets India and South Africa, or what? In test cricket, it's not only the lack of runs but, more significantly, the shoddy dismissals that have become recurring themes. I actually still rate the Punter very highly, particularly in one-day cricket, but has his time passed?
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