A LACK of depth in Australian cricket will be highlighted today with selectors expected to recall four players who have been dropped during the past two Ashes series to save the side.
Mitchell Johnson and Ben Hilfenhaus, axed after the first Test this year, Nathan Hauritz, who was dumped for the fifth Ashes Test last year, and Phillip Hughes, dropped after the second Test last year, could be relied upon to turn Australia's fortunes against England in Perth next week.
Hauritz is favoured to oust young spinner Xavier Doherty, Johnson and Hilfenhaus are expected to return after the fruitless search for wickets in Adelaide, while Hughes comes in for Simon Katich, who will play no further part in the series after tearing a ligament in his Achilles tendon.
Steve Smith is another likely replacement for No.6 batsman Marcus North, although the young NSW all-rounder has never played in an Ashes Test.
The plan defies logic but these are desperate times for a side facing consecutive series defeats, and their first Ashes loss at home since 1986-87.
Johnson wanted to play in the Sheffield Shield for Western Australia but was told to stay with the squad and work on his action with bowling coach Troy Cooley. His performance in Perth will be telling for both men.
West Australian youngster Michael Beer has been suggested as the spinning answer by Shane Warne but like Doherty he is not experienced enough.
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