Steve Waugh has accused Australia's chief selector George Bailey of rarely having the appetite to make tough calls, adamant the transition of the Test team depends on it.

One of the most reserved figures from Australia's golden era, Waugh used a rare media appearance on Wednesday to question the handling of Australia's ageing side.

Bailey then insisted he and his panel were willing to make tough calls, and asked what they were meant to do while older players were still performing.

Australia's 15-man squad for the first Ashes Test includes just one player aged under 30, with the regeneration of the team a hot topic in recent years.

David Warner is the only player to have retired in recent years, with fellow opener Usman Khawaja to turn 39 next month.

Quicks Mitchell Starc, Scott B

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