Tasmanian Tim Paine's selection behind the stumps for Australia's first two Test matches against England has caused a stir to say the least.
Paine was picked as Australia's Test keeper despite not being Tasmania's first choice keeper, with Matthew Wade keeping wicket so far this Shield season since making the move from Victoria.
He has also failed to set the world on fire with the bat in Shield cricket in recent years.
However, former Australian great, Ricky Ponting, believes Paine, who was touted for greatness several years ago before injuries curtailed his career, could be the national side's keeper long term.
"I don’t think there’s ever been any doubt about his wicketkeeping ability which is the reason why he had never been dropped from the Australian team," Ponting said told cricket.com.au.
"I've said for a long time, that he’s clearly the best keeper in the country and over the years we’ve seen glimpses of how good a batsman he actually is.
"The thing about him is, he hasn’t actually played that much cricket because of the injuries he’s had. Two whole years off and then the last few years he’s been in and out of the state team as well.
"Without playing much cricket he’s always looked after himself exceptionally well. He’s always the first one in the gym and he’s got a naturally fit and athletic body.
"If he can nail some good performances these first few Test matches then that will obviously secure his spot for the rest of this series. Which could then mean he’s Australia’s gloveman for the next few years."
Paine earned selection on the back of an impressive performance for the Cricket Australia XI against England last week, followed by an unbeaten 71 playing as a specialist batsman for Tasmania against Victoria in the third round of the Sheffield Shield season. And Ponting is backing Paine to continue his form with the bat in the Ashes.
"Everyone knows he’s talented with the bat, so when he doesn’t make those big scores it’s almost a negative against him," Ponting added.
"If you can get an average of 30 or 40 out of your wicketkeeper that’s all you need if your top order is doing their job.
"Technically he’s very correct. When you watch him in the Big Bash you just think, 'how has this guy not actually scored more Shield runs?'
"When he’s out there playing well, he looks as good as any of the other batters around the country.
"There’s no doubting there’s a lot of talent there and he’s made a Test match 92 before in tough conditions in India, so let’s hope he can repay the faith the selectors have shown - I’m sure he will."
