Dumped opener Simon Katich has launched a stinging attack on the Australia selectors, describing the decision not to offer him a new contract as "absolutely ridiculous".

Katich was informed by chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch on Tuesday that he was no longer part of Australia's plans, with their preference to blood a new opening combination with a view to the 2013 Ashes series.

But three days later Katich didn't hold back while announcing he will continue making himself available for New South Wales, taking the opportunity to take a thinly-veiled swipe at selectors and what he believes is the real reason for his dumping.

"I want to apologise for not having had a shave this morning, my friends tell me it makes me look five years younger but I don't want to hide from the fact that I'm 35," said Katich.

"I'd also like to say that I'm extremely disappointed and frustrated with the decision that I found out about on Tuesday.

"But I also want to make it clear that I know that I'm not the only player that has gone through this in the last couple of years due to inconsistent selection policies.

"I just hope that something good comes out of this situation because I actually think the decision that came on Tuesday was absolutely ridiculous."

Katich, the former Durham batmans, who intends to force his way back into the frame by weight of runs at Sheffield Shield level, believes selectors are too quick to reward potential when he thinks performance should be the main factor.

While he didn't specifically name his anointed replacement Phil Hughes, who has underperformed at international level, the inference was obvious.

"It certainly didn't come as a total shock on Tuesday," he added.

"Only because I know how they operate, I've been through this situation before and I guess from my point of view to hear the news was very disappointing, particularly because of the reason that was given.

"As far back as when I started my career, playing for Australia has always been about bottom line, performance.

"Now it just seems that that's changed and it's not only about performance, it's about potential.

"I can understand why they're looking to the future, I've got no problem with that.

"What I've got a problem with is the fact that you still pick the team based on how you've been performing."