George Bailey dropped from Australian test squad for South Africa

   
"Alex was on standby for the recent fifth test in Sydney and scored a most impressive 165 not out against South Africa for Australia A last season," he added.
   
Inverarity said Doolan and Marsh had been preferred to Phil Hughes, who was better suited to a place higher in the order. Bailey was also seem to have limitations against seam bowling.
   
"Shaun is a talented batsman who is striking the ball very well at the moment. He has the technique and potential to do well," he said.
   
The selectors have kept together the bowling lineup which helped Australia to a 5-0 win in the Ashes test series, retaining Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle. Pattinson and Bird have been included ahead of the young Coulter-Nile to give Australia experienced backup in the event of injuries.
   
"James Pattinson is regaining fitness and form," Inverarity said. "At his best he is a fine test match bowler.
   
"Jackson Bird shaded out Nathan Coulter-Nile for the final bowling position and each of these bowlers is showing encouraging form.
   
The Australia squad will leave for South Africa on Jan. 29, with the exception of James Faulkner who will remain behind to play in the T20 Series against England.
   
"The selection panel is supporting Darren Lehmann and Michael Clarke in their strong desire to give this test series the highest priority and have the best possible preparation for the players who have performed so admirably this summer."
     
Australian squad: Michael Clarke(captain), Brad Haddin, Jackson Bird, Alex Doolan, James Faulkner, Ryan Harris, Mitchell Johnson, Shaun Marsh, Nathan Lyon, James Pattinson, Chris Rogers, Peter Siddle, Steve Smith, David Warner, Shane Watson.