Oz considering all-pace attack for first Ashes Test if Watson deemed unfit to bowl

Australia is reportedly considering fielding four fast bowlers in next week's first winter Ashes Test against England at the Gabba if all-rounder Shane Watson is deemed unfit to bowl.

Watson, who was Australia's leading run-scorer in England in the summer Ashes, is recovering from a hamstring strain and although he is certain to resume his place in the top order in Brisbane, his return to bowling remains in doubt.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, without Watson providing a crucial fourth seaming option next week there will be a heavier load on Australian pacemen Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle and Mitchell Johnson, who the home side is desperate not to burn out with five Tests in fewer than seven weeks.

The report mentioned that the inclusion of James Faulkner, who took match figures of 6-98 in his only Test at the Oval in August, would also give extra depth to Australia's most problematic area in recent times, its batting order.

However, Australian captain Michael Clarke said that he would he would wait until he sees the wickets at the Gabba before making a plan, although he added that it is necessary to pick up the best bowlers of his team as the main focus is to take 20 wickets.

Australia has not gone into a Gabba Test without a specialist spin bowler since 2008, when Brett Lee, Stuart Clark and Johnson led an attack against New Zealand that also featured two all-rounders, Watson and Andrew Symonds, the report added.