'Pick the best keeper in the country'

Tim Paine is not even the first-choice keeper for his state team, so his elevation to the national side as a gloveman caused plenty of debate.

Former Australian legspinner Stuart MacGill was blunt, as ever.

Ashes selections.... made by morons mascarading as mentors. Times up gents. https://t.co/LIfRIK1B41

— stu macgill (@scgmacgill) 16 November 2017

The sheer lack of games behind the stumps for Paine made it an incredible selection.

Tim Paine tipped as Ashes wicketkeeper? Hasn't made a first-class hundred since 2006. Has kept wicket in 3 Shield games in past 2 years. Extraordinary. https://t.co/iuTRZvi7FA

— Brydon Coverdale (@brydoncoverdale) 16 November 2017

Then there was the lack of runs.

To put things in perspective, the Oz coach Darren Lehmann scored a FC ton in 2007, Tim Paine's last FC ton was in 2006.

— Rob Moody (@robelinda2) 16 November 2017

Paine averages 29 in his first-class career, and just 20.40 in the past two years.

And what of Paines average in shield cricket in that time? Best keeper is old school selection!!

— Brett Geeves (@brettygeevz) 16 November 2017

Paine had his share of backers too though, including experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Ludeman.

If Paine selection is true. Great move, no wicketkeeper is currently in form. So pick the best 'keeper in the country #pure #gloveman

— Tim Ludeman (@tludey) 16 November 2017

And former Tasmania medium-pacer Tim Macdonald.

best gloveman in the country. Fact. Even the country's glovemen agree with that.

— Tim Macdonald (@timmacs) 16 November 2017