Dean Jones says Oz can win winter Ashes if 'improve 15 percent' with bat

Former Australian cricketer Dean Jones has said he believes that if Australia can improve '15 per cent' with the bat and put in a strong performance in the first Test at the Gabba, then they can go on to win the winter Ashes series.

Despite the constant discussion over one-day international tours, Ryobi Cup and Sheffield Shield fixtures, Jones believes that Cricket Australia (CA) has properly fixed the schedule in a way that except for ODI captain George Bailey, every Test batsman will get at least two matches before the Gabba Test.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Jones said that Australia can rest unconcerned over its bowling attack as despite being savaged on flat tracks in India, the strength of the Test team is bowling, adding that the team can focus completely on improving its batting and also fielding if they want to regain back the urn from England.

Stating that Chris Rogers, Shane Watson, Michael Clarke and Steve Smith are the only certainties in his mind for the winter Ashes, Jones also said that David Warner should get at least one score leading up to the first Test even though he had a terrific Ryobi Cup campaign, adding that he is almost certain that the vacant No.6 spot will go to Bailey.

Jones mentioned that even though Bailey had a poor Sheffield Shield season last year with only 258 runs, he is currently in a very good form with his performances in India, adding that Bailey is a quality person, positive leader, has good communication skills and does not seek media attention.