Nathan Lyon was overlooked to left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty during the 2015 World Cup.

Australia take on India at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. Michael Clarke's men are definitely favourites on their home ground but have a few gaping holes that India could take advantage of.

Xavier Doherty was selected in Australia's 15-member World Cup squad ahead of Lyon amid a lot of speculation.

Michael Clarke will have to prove his fitness in order to lead Australia in World Cup.Selectors include Xavier Doherty as lone main spinner with power-hitter Glenn Maxwell and all-rounder Shane Watson also being named.

Left-arm spinner Xavier Doherty played for Hobart Hurricanes in the Champions League Twenty20.

The 14-man limited-overs squad is close to full strength, with Clarke, vice-captain George Bailey, veteran wicketkeeper Brad Haddin, paceman Mitchell Johnson and allrounder Shane Watson all included.

India's leading spinner R Ashwin, who grabbed 29 wickets in the four-Test series against the visitors in February-March, has taken some heavy punishment from the in-form Australian duo of opener Aaron Finch and skipper George Bailey.

Australia are 2-1 ahead in the rubber and India face a must-win situation on October 30 to stay alive in the series.

India are at the top in ICC ODI team rankings with 123 points while Australia are second with 115 points.

Michael Clarke's captaincy is subject to fitness. Clarke has a lower back problem and could miss the Indian tour. George Bailey has been named the team's vice-captain ahead of Shane Watson. Australia will also have a new head coach in Steve Rixon. Darren Lehmann will be rested.