Australia have called up versatile Queensland batsman Joe Burns as replacement for the injured Mitch Marsh for the third Test against India.
Marsh scored 17 runs overall in the second Test in Brisbane and picked up a wicket, as Australia went on to win by four wickets to take a 2-0 series lead.
However, Cricket Australia confirmed Marsh is now nursing an injury and will be replaced by Burns, who will join the 13-man group ahead of a potential debut in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.
Burns has been highly regarded by Australia coach Darren Lehmann, with the 25-year-old boasting a first-class average of 42.54, while he also had a spell with Leicestershire in 2013 as an overseas player, which was cut short by injury.
Burns, who struck 183 against New South Wales in November, is also playing for the Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League, and was praised by Lehmann after his call-up was confirmed.
“We think he's the best man,” Lehmann told Cricket Australia’s website. “He can fit anywhere from one to six (in the batting order).”
Of his selection, Burns said: “It took a fair while to sink in. I’m over the moon at the news as it is the best Christmas present I could ever hope for.”
Meanwhile, Lehmann also stated batsman David Warner remains in line to play in Melbourne despite picking up a thumb injury during Australia’s second-innings run chase in Brisbane.