Australian selectors called ‘morons’ for including Tim Paine in Ashes squad

Cricket Australia on Friday announced the squad for first two Ashes Tests. The selectors in a shocking move included wicketkeeper Tim Paine in the 13-member squad. Paine makes a comeback in the Test side after a period of seven long years.

New Delhi: Cricket Australia on Friday announced the squad for first two Ashes Tests. The selectors in a shocking move included wicketkeeper Tim Paine in the 13-member squad. Paine makes a comeback in the Test side after a period of seven long years.

The selection committee was at the receiving end following the inclusion of the Tasmnia glovemen. Former Australia cricketer Shane Warne said, “Australia look confused. They’re picking wicketkeepers that aren’t even keeping for their state. To me, I think England are in a better situation going into that first Test than what Australia are.”

While, Warne’s bowling partner, Stuart Macgill took to his Twitter handle to vent his frustration on the Ashes squad but went a bit too harsh on the Australian skipper and the selection committee. The 46-year-old wrote, “If Peter Neville isn't being selected because he doesn't score enough runs then perhaps the Australian captain should remember the day he was first selected for an Ashes series. Ashes selection made by morons mascarading as mentors.”

If @pmnevill isn't being selected because he doesn't score enough runs then perhaps the Australian captain should remember the day he was first selected for an Ashes series.

— stu macgill (@scgmacgill) November 16, 2017

Ashes selections.... made by morons mascarading as mentors. Times up gents. https://t.co/LIfRIK1B41

— stu macgill (@scgmacgill) November 16, 2017

Paine got the nod over Mathew Wade and Peter Neville in the national team, despite few appearances for his Tasmania state side behind Wade this season. Paine last scored a hundred for Tasmania in 2006.

Cricket Australia has also included Cameroon Bancroft and Shaun Renshaw for the first two Tests and they will replace Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw.