Brett Lee has called into question Australia’s decision to drop Shane Watson for the second Ashes Test.

Despite boasting a batting average of 35 for his career, Watson has averaged just 27 since the start of 2014.

“I have been a really good team-mate with Watto and a personal friend, too,” Lee, who played 76 Tests for Australia, said.

“From a cricket point of view, I love when Shane Watson is in the team as he brings a really good balance. He has got close to 60 Test matches of experience, which is a lot of cricket, so in a tough time when Australia might be under the pump, that experience and confidence can shine through.

“If they weren’t happy with his  form I would have loved to see them allow him to play this Test at Lord’s and say ‘look, if this is your last game, your head is on the line, go out and play with that freedom’.

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“They may have said that to him ahead of the first Test, but am I disappointed? Yes, I am. He has still got a lot to offer.”

Australia will also be without Brad Haddin for the second match of the series.

“(Haddin) is a massive loss, and whether he is out for the whole series or one Test, no one knows,” Lee added.

“Mitchell Johnson got most of the raps for winning the Ashes back in Australia, but I think it was Brad Haddin who really stood up.

“They have lost a lot in Brad Haddin. I hope he is back for the third Test at Edgbaston.”