Australian selectors want nation’s best batsmen to be bowlers as well

The Chairman of the National Selection Panel (NSP), John Inverarity, has called on the nation's best batsmen to work on their bowling skills in a bid to give the Test team greater flexibility down the track.

With all-rounder Shane Watson currently sidelined, veterans Mike Hussey and Ricky Ponting have been called upon in recent times to provide bowling backup to the four specialist bowlers.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Inverarity now wants batsman of the future to become even more competent with the ball.

"I think all of us on the selection panel hold the view that it is very desirable to have some of your six best batsmen as decent bowlers," he said.

"You look back at some of the Australian teams when Steve Waugh was amongst the best batsmen, but also a very handy bowler. All rounders are like gold and also batsmen who are very competent bowlers - Greg Chappell, Doug Walters, Greg Blewett and here in WA Tom Moody was a prime example,” he added.

"It does make a huge difference if a couple of your batsmen are good bowlers. We've talked to the national talent managers in each state and we'll certainly be emphasising that," Inverarity said.