If Willie Nelson had been born in Australia or England, he may have penned a different song, Mamma don't let your babies grow up to be first drop.

In recent times, there's been a reticence on the part of talented players from those parts to bat at No. 3. Michael Clarke studiously avoided the position. Steve Smith has batted there but at the first opportunity, he opts for his preferred second drop position. All of this notwithstanding, a chronic weakness at three following Ricky Ponting's retirement.