The side's fielding set-up has also been altered on this trip, with Michael Clarke due to replace the retired Matthew Hayden at first slip. Marcus North has spent time there during his limited appearances, but Nielsen has decided Clarke is the long-term option in the crucial position.
"Michael has caught a lot at third slip in the past, he's a natural catcher at slip and we think he's the best man for the job there," Nielsen told Cricket Australia TV. Ponting is unmoved in the reshuffle while Phillip Hughes will stand at third and Michael Hussey remains in the gully.
The move means Clarke's strong left arm throwing and outstanding ground fielding will be missing from the offside. "We certainly feel as though we're losing some of our speed, agility and throwing power in the ring at cover," Nielsen said. "But looking at how most dismissals take place, especially early on in the innings with the new ball, there were so many catches behind the wicket that the decision was made that we need our best catchers there."
