Cricket Australia aiming for top spot in all three formats: Chappell

SYDNEY - New Australian selector Greg Chappell has said that Cricket Australia is focused on building a team to return to No.1 spot in the world.

“The Ashes is a big series, yes, but the strategic goal of Cricket Australia is to be No.1 in all three forms of the game,” the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Chappell, as saying.

India retained its No.1 Test team status after beating Australia 2-0 in the recent home series, while Australia has slipped to the fifth spot just below England for the first time since the rankings were introduced in 2003.

Chappell further highlighted that the ageing Test batting line-up is being discussed amongst the national selectors.

“It is no secret that we have an ageing batting order and that is something we need to address. And if you look at the batting, that’s an area we have fallen down a couple of times over the last few years,” Chappell said.

“If you see someone who you believe has the ability to improve the team you’ve got to be open to that … I’m not saying we definitely will do that (make changes) this summer or we definitely won’t, I’m one of four selectors so there will be a number of discussions ahead,” he added.

The Australian team on the tour of India included three batsmen beyond the age of 35 - Ricky Ponting, Simon Katich and Mike Hussey.

Younger members Marcus North (31) Michael Clarke (29) and Shane Watson (29) were also hardly youngsters. (ANI)