Khawaja, Hughes edges past Cowan in quest of Oz batting line-up for Ashes

Australian cricketers Usman Khawaja and Phillip Hughes have reportedly put behind of Ed Cowan in the quest to firm up spots in Australia's batting line-up for the Ashes.

Cowan, who is fighting hard to partner former vice captain Shane Watson at the top of the order at Trent Bridge, got a start in the tour match against Somerset but failed to go on with it, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

According to the report, Cowan succumbed to the same bowler for three in the first innings, although on that occasion there was some doubt over whether he had hit it.

In comparison, Khawaja, unbeaten on 66, was largely in command of the Somerset bowling while Hughes (37 not out) continued his quest for a spot in the team for Trent Bridge Test after making 76 not out in the middle order in the first innings.

The report further said that Cowan looked in good touch until he was dismissed, and would have been disappointed to miss a chance to nail a spot, with Chris Rogers in the wings and set to play in the next match against Worcestershire.

Cowan has not scored a first-class century since his maiden Test ton against South Africa at the Gabba in November, the report added.