HAMPSHIRE hero Alan Mullally destroyed Australia's batsmen at the weekend only to be snubbed by England's selectors for this week's third Ashes clash at Trent Bridge.

In front of almost 6,000 spectators at a sun-kissed Rose Bowl, the 32-year-old pace bowler wreaked havoc on Steve Waugh's side, bagging a superb five wickets for just 18 runs.

The world's best team were sent packing for a paltry 97, raising hopes that Mullally's two-year Test exile would be ended.

But England's selectors ignored his claims, opting instead for Surrey's Alex Tudor and Yorkshire's Chris Silverwood.

Mullally was left bemused by the decision as he said: "It is disappointing to be left out, but what can you say?

"I am a yard quicker than Shaun Pollock, who is supposed to be the best in the world, so I can't have been left out because of my pace.

"I'm probably bowling better now than at any time in my career.

"I would have loved the chance to play in the Test, to get stuck in, get in their faces and stare them in the eye. That's what it is all about.

"The Australians can't believe it - I know Shane Warne was surprised by the news."

Hampshire coach, Jimmy Cook, was also puzzled, saying: "I just can't figure it out.

"England have shown they can't bowl Australia out, and I firmly believe that after Darren Gough and Andrew Caddick, Alan is the next best in England.

"Alan can take wickets - he's taken 5-18 against the Australians. What more does he have to do?"

Chairman of selectors, David Graveney, admitted they were cautious against making wholesale changes in the squad.

He said: "We feel we will need more variety in our attack at Trent Bridge, and the inclusion of Alex Tudor and Robert Croft will give more bowling options.

"It was a close call with Alan Mullally, but Tudor would have been selected had he not been coming back from injury for the last Test."