Shane warns Ricky Ponting his attack is not up to scratch

Tom Collomosse
20 Jul 2009

Shane Warne believes Australia should make changes to their team for the Third Test at Edgbaston, irrespective of the outcome of the final day of the second match at Lord's .

The Aussie great is worried about the form of his former team's bowlers, with star paceman Mitchell Johnson a particular worry after poor displays with the ball in the opening two Tests.

Australia begin a three-day tour match against Northamptonshire on Friday, before finalising their plans for the third clash with England, which begins in Birmingham next Thursday.

Warne told The Times: "Brett Lee will definitely come into consideration if he can prove he is 100 per cent fit after his side injury, and as long as Shane Watson proves his fitness, I would definitely find a place for him.

"They need the option of a fifth bowler. Ben Hilfenhaus has done a good job, but the form of Mitchell Johnson has been a big talking point.

"He is a far better bowler than he has shown over the first two Tests, but he needs to get his form back between now and Edgbaston on Thursday week.

"He has always had a slingy bowling action, so I don't think the low arm is the big problem. The difficulty is his wrist position, and there is also a mental issue.

"Captain Ricky Ponting needs to regain confidence in the man who was his top bowler before the series began, and for that reason, Johnson has to play in the warm-up match at Northampton."