Bird flies in to replace tired Starc
Tasmanian-based fast bowler Jackson Bird will make his debut for Australia in the second Test against Sri Lanka at the MCG starting on Boxing Day.
Bird has been brought into the line-up as the Australian selectors opt to rest paceman Mitchell Starc after his heavy workload in the previous two Tests.
However, Australia had yet to make a decision on Michael Clarke's appearance with the skipper still battling a hamstring strain.
Usman Khawaja remains on standby but the hosts were unlikely to make a call on Clarke until just before the toss.
Bird has had an outstanding two seasons in Sheffield Shield cricket for Tasmania.
The lanky right-armer has taken 87 wickets at 19.72 in 17 matches during that time.
Team: Michael Clarke (capt), David Warner, Ed Cowan, Phil Hughes, Shane Watson (vc), Mike Hussey, Matt Wade, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Lyon, Jackson Bird.
