Pakistan vs Australia Tests: James Faulkner Called in as Cover for Injured Mitchell Marsh

Left-arm pacer James Faulkner has been added to the Australian Test squad for the two-match series against Pakistan as cover for injured all-rounder Mitchell Marsh, who is suffering from a hamstring injury. Australia, who have taken an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series, play their first Test from October 22 in Dubai.

Marsh appeared almost certain to make his Test debut after Shane Watson was ruled out of Australia's tour of the UAE with a calf injury but he strained his hamstring while playing for Perth Scorchers in the recently-concluded Champions League Twenty20 in India.

However, Cricket Australia reported Marsh had resumed training and batting in the nets but there was uncertainty whether he would be able to bowl at full capacity.

Faulkner has been part of Australia's limited overs side that clinched the ODI series and also won the lone T20. Faulkner has batted at No. 6 in all the three matches. Faulkner had played only one Test during the Ashes series in England, which Australia lost 3-0.

Glenn Maxwell, who has played two Tests previously, will also be in fray for the vacant all-rounder's spot. Maxwell's both Test appearances came in March 2013 when Australia toured India.

Australia will play a four-day game against Pakistan A from October 15 in Sharjah.