I mean...that's still a cracking side, everyone at their best. I'd probably have Watson over Uzi, maybe.
Yeah.
Ponting was waning in 2010 to retirement late 2012. He did have a decent series against India 2011/12 but was well cooked in 2012 so I didn't include him. I did include Hussey as he always seemed to score. Even in his last summer of 2012/13, his retirement was a shock as the Aussies were off to England mid-year for The Ashes and he'd have done well...just wanted off the bus I believe. Still scrapped in 3 tons (2 SAF; 1 SL) and a 54 (SA) before bowing out that summer.
It's funny though. Did the hypothetical side with my almost 11 year old son. He was adamant Watto had to be in. I ummhed and aahhed worse than a Dave Gallop TV Deal announcement, and he got the shits with me. LOL! Stormed off muttering something. Anyway, you and he are both right... Watto could probably squeeze in there. And probably should.
We were blessed for bowlers in the 2010s. On song Johnson, fit Harris, Cummins, Haze, Starc...all hold their own. Patto just underneath but his on off injuries have probably cruelled his best. Lyon has to be the spin option. God knows they tried a few with Doherty, Beer, McGain, Holland...
One player who probably disappoints is Shaun Marsh. Interestingly, debuted 1 test after Lyon, in SL in 2011. Lyon has played 96 tests for 390 wickets @ 31.58, and 1031 runs @ 12.27. 48 catches too. Smarsh has played a 1/3 amount of tests as Lyon...38 tests for not a single ball bowled and 2265 runs @ 34.31. 6 tons in that and 10 50s which shows you how frustrating it truly has been watching Smarsh. Has never really cemented his spot, has had countless chances and failed when needed most. Ah well.
And despite the ribbing, I've always had a massive soft spot for Siddle. But up against any other bowler, and to a degree, even Hilfenhaus... he just doesn't make it in.