The Ashes 2013: Five things Australia needs to do to recapture the Ashes

All-rounder in the middle order

Steve Smith can be a useful addition to the Australian side

In addition to Shane Watson, the addition of another all-rounder in the middle order would serve as a useful adjunct to the team in all the departments. Young Steve Smith can be tried as an all-rounder in the team, and his spinning abilities might also be a useful for the Aussies. His explosive batting needs no introduction, and he can play cameos and quickfire innings if required. However, his ability to play the long innings is yet to be tested.

In addition to these five important things, the Australians need to get their basics right. Getting the prized wickets wicket of Cook and Trott early can help greatly, and the talented seamers need to perform this job.