Watching Michael Hussey single-handedly keep us in this year’s Ashes, in the face of the Australian batting order being in a state of perpetual collapse, one could not help but ponder the continued omission of his equally as good brother, David.
Granted, the two years younger sibling lacks the craft and guile of his older brother, however he has proven to be just as effective. Indeed David’s first-class average is a stately 55 compared to Michael’s 52.
Compared to the to first-class averages of Australia’s other batsmen, David Hussey’s average is even more impressive.
It can be argued, however, that a good first-class average does not necessarily translate to the Test arena – Mark Ramprakash, Graeme Hick and Michael Bevan are all good examples of this. However, a first-class average does provide us with the best tool possible in determining a player’s likelihood of success at the top level.
David Hussey’s continued omission from the Test team has shocked many even in the English touring party, who have closeup experience of the brutality of his batting from County cricket.
If his batting talents alone are not enough to warrant selection in our mediocre side, then why did he not warrant selection? Well, he seems a bit of a tough nut. Yes that’s right, I said it: David Hussey’s attitude and demeanour belie a belligerent, pig-headed, single-minded player, and that’s exactly what this current Australian side seems to lack.
Kevin Pietersen recently commented how Australia had lost their arrogance in the field, and had been much quieter the past two Ashes series compared to the imposing teams of old.
Not since Andrew Symonds was ushered away has Australia possessed anyone even remotely physically and mentally intimidating. Since then it seems, anyone with a diamond studded earring, blonde rinse or designer tribal tattoo has been fast tracked to a baggy green.
But then again, clearly the selectors have Australian cricket’s best interests at heart, I mean what would I know about marketability? Maybe I’m old fashioned I guess, but I just want to see a winning cricket team.
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