Batting legend Steve Waugh has questioned Australia’s decision to leave out off-spinner Todd Murphy from the playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against England at Old Trafford, Manchester.

“I tend to disagree with it,” Waugh told SENQ Breakfast of the Australian selection. The visitors went into the game with an all out pace attack.

“I think it’s a mistake, particularly in Manchester where the ball does turn,” opined Waugh.

“I know they’re probably looking at the forecast and saying there’s a bit of rain around, but you do need variation in the attack,” he added.

All-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who replaced injured Cameron Green in the playing XI at Headingley, smashed run-a-ball 118 when the Aussies were in dire straits at 85/4 on a green pitch after being asked to bat first.

Marsh retained his place in the team as Green returned to the XI. As a result, Murphy faced the axe after playing as a premier spinner in Leeds.

“Particularly with the way England plays. They go at the bowlers really hard and we’ve got four right-arm quick bowlers so there’s a bit of sameness about our attack,” said Waugh.

This is the first time since 2012 that Australia haven’t included a recognized spinner in their bowling attack.

Waugh mentioned that Starc might bring the variation needed. “Mitchell Starc is the key being a left-arm and swinging the ball, he brings variation,” he said.

“But if the wicket is pretty flat and we haven’t got too much up our sleeve, I think England will probably like the sight of the four right-arm quick bowlers,” he further remarked.

Coming to the Manchester Test, Australia reached 299/8 at stumps on Day 1 after being asked to bat first. Mitchell Marsh and Marnus Labuschagne top scored with 51 runs each.

Chris Woakes starred with the ball for the hosts, returning with the figures of 4 for 52 in 19 overs.