Cricket: Australia ring the changes

VEXED PROBLEMS: Ricky Ponting (L) and Australia's chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch. Photo / Getty Images

Australia's made sweeping changes to its squad for the third Ashes test against England in Perth.

There are four changes to the 12 man squad that was embarrassed by an innings in Adelaide.

But there's no Shane Warne - despite a public campaign across the Tasman to bring back the retired superstar.

Western Australian off-spinner Michael Beer comes in for Xavier Doherty, Phillip Hughes replaces the injured Simon Katich, Steven Smith is in for Marcus North and Mitchell Johnson's back for Doug Bollinger.

Head of selectors Andrew Hilditch says they had to make changes.

He says they've been totally outplayed in all facets of the game and they've got a lot to improve.

Andrew Hilditch says they're looking forward to seeing Beer produce his spin on the WACA wicket.

- NEWSTALK ZB