Melbourne, Oct. 21 -- Former Australian captain Tim Paine floated the name of former Tasmanian teammate and right-arm pacer Riley Meredith to boost Australia's depleting bowling stocks ahead of the home Ashes series starting from November 21 onwards.

As the first ball of Ashes at home at Perth awaits Australia, they face a serious trouble with their skipper Pat Cummins likely to miss the first Test due to back stress issues. Since the tour to the Windies, the Australian skipper has not bowled in nets, putting himself in serious doubt. Also, all-rounders Cameron Green (back surgery) and Beau Webster (ankle issues) are battling their own concerns and will have to race against time to present themselves as viable pace options at home.

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