Adam Voges didn't have a great season by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I think he's one of the most over-rated batsmen in the competition. His whole reputation IMO is based largely on the fastest 100 he scored about 3 years ago, but he hasn't really done great in f-c cricket (15 50+ scores in 40 matches). Marcus North is a far better batsman than him, far more consistent, and in fact a better spin bowler as well.

And I thought the point was to base the selection mainly on what they've done this season? If so, I can't see how you can leave out Shaun Marsh or Beau Casson. Although it's true that this is Marsh's first truly outstanding season, he batted with a lot more determination than in previous years, and I think he could do so next year as well. Casson once upon a time was regarded as the most promising spin bowler in Australia (I remember Mark Waugh had him in his Future team) so I think it's entirely appropriate that he gets a look in.

I think he referring to the fact that we are considering bowlers averaging around 40 odd.

But Quagy considering the above point, and what Aurelius just raised. I do have an issue with Hilfenhaus due to that reason.

I'll put two polls up at this stage

First Poll question

Would we prefer a specialist opening batsmen or the the best performing batsmen (not specificialy an opener)

Yes : The best specialist opener
No : The best batsmen not specifically an opener.

Second Poll question

Would we prefer a specialist spin bowler or the best performing bowler (not specificialy a spinner)

Yes : The best spin bowler
No : The best bowler not specificaly a spinner

I'll put a finishing time on these of the 1st April, which should give ample opportunity for everyones input.

Well, I've already given my thoughts, but I'd really prefer a specialist opener and a specialist spinner- the specialist opener because in this case I think Ryan Broad would complement Phillip Hughes very well, and the specialist spinner because every team needs a spinner. Casson would do a better job than Cameron White or Adam Voges, and the fact that he averaged 60 with the bat at no. 8 doesn't hurt his cause any.

I agree with Aurelius entirely. Specialist opener & spinner in my opinion.

Interim poll voting update

Selection should be based primarily on this season's performances , but longer term performance can be a factor in selections, as can things like age, relative experience, participation in 'A' tours etc.

To go to the poll question, we've learnt the hard way in NZ the importance of using specialist openers so yes to that one.

With the second spinner I feel we could be best suited to pick Watson to free up a middle order spot for Voges. This was the point I was making last week although I got my players mixed up and the point got lost I think. The first spinner should definately be the best specialist.

I will save my vote until the end on April fools day

So, you mean pick White as the second spinner, Watson as the fourth seamer and Voges as the fourth batsman? I guess so, but McDonald should definitely be ahead of Watson. I'm not the biggest fan of Voges, but I can't think of anyone else off the top of my head, so he could come into the squad. I don't think he'd get into the first XI.

Lol not quite, I meant White as second spinner, Watson shouldn't have come into the discussion but I got my W's mixed up.
MacDonald should be fourth seamer not Watson IMO.