Despite the unavailability of Shane Watson and the popular theory here that five bowlers are needed against a strong Indian batting line-up, Australia has chosen not to play all-rounder Daniel Christian in the first Test.
The playing eleven, announced two days before the Boxing Day Test, has six batsmen, three seamers, a spinner, and a wicket-keeper.
Ed Cowan, who scored a century against India in the practice game to continue his terrific domestic form, is poised to make his debut.
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He'll walk out to open with David Warner while Shaun Marsh, who is returning after recovering from a back injury, is set to bat at one-drop, making it an all left-handed top three.
Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey, whose spots are under pressure, line up alongside captain Michael Clarke in the middle-order.
The bowling attack has one change from the team that played New Zealand.
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Ben Hilfenhaus was chosen instead of left-armer Mitchell Starc to share the fast-bowling duties with Peter Siddle and James Pattinson. Clarke said Hilfenhaus' control and ability to bowl long spells had played a part in his inclusion.
“I'm confident we've got the best eleven to win this Test match in these conditions,” said Clarke. “DC [Christian] offers a lot with both bat and ball but unfortunately for him right now, we can't fit him into the eleven.”
Australia: David Warner, Ed Cowan, Shaun Marsh, Ricky Ponting, Michael Clarke (capt.), Michael Hussey, Brad Haddin (wk), Peter Siddle, James Pattinson, Nathan Lyon, and Ben Hilfenhaus.