Australia's selectors have put the team's Ashes campaign in serious jeopardy because of their failure to make tough decisions, former Australia opener Michael Slater says.

The selectors were responsible for some monumental blunders, including the retention of out-of-form batsman Mike Hussey, Slater said.

Slater also questioned the selectors' mindset, saying they had become obsessed with sticking with a losing combination when changes should have been made.

"We're losing but selectors have sat on their hands and done nothing to improve the situation," Slater said.

"It's beyond a joke.

"He's out of form, and the succession plan should have begun way before now, but there is no way Michael can play the first Test," Slater said.

"Right now, Callum Ferguson is the obvious choice to replace him and has found form and a change has to be made for the Ashes opener."

Khawaja, in an exclusive interview with foxsports.com.au, described the prospect of Ashes selection as "freakin' awesome".

Khawaja has been in great form in the Sheffield Shield this season, scoring his maiden double-century, against South Australia, and producing a sterling performance for New South Wales as wickets fell against

He's under pressure now, let alone if we lose the Ashes," Slater said.

"Michael Clarke remains the heir apparent; while he's struggling in Twenty20 cricket, you can't question his Test credentials."