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Australia give Michael Clarke every chance to prove fitness ahead of first Test against India

Image: Michael Clarke: Included in 12-man squad to play first Test against India

Michael Clarke has been named in a 12-man Australia squad for next month's opening Test against India in Brisbane.

The Australia skipper is included subject to a fitness test on the left hamstring he injured in the recent one-day series against South Africa in Perth, while he also continues to receive treatment for an ongoing back problem.

Uncapped fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is also in the squad, while veteran paceman Ryan Harris returns following knee surgery and will play in this week's round of Sheffield Shield matches as part of his build-up to the first Test.

Chief selector Rod Marsh said: "Michael Clarke has been included subject to fitness. We would have preferred him to play in the round of Sheffield Shield starting on Tuesday, but unfortunately his condition did not allow him enough time to be ready for that match.

"The aim is for him to play in the two-day Cricket Australia XI match against India at the Adelaide Oval starting on Friday and his selection for the first Test is very much dependent on him pulling up well from that match."

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Marsh confirmed a replacement batsman would likely be called into the squad for the Test - which starts on December 4 - if Clarke fails to prove his fitness.

Hazelwood was been rewarded for his performances in the one-day series against South Africa, in which he took nine wickets. Mitchell Starc and Glenn Mazwell miss out.

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"Josh is a young player of great talent and he thoroughly deserves this opportunity," Marsh added.

"He has impressed in the recent one-day series and we are excited to see what he can produce if given the opportunity in Brisbane.

"Ryan has worked extremely hard to return to elite cricket following his knee surgery.

"We know what a quality player he is. He will play in this week's Sheffield Shield to get more bowling under his belt but we are all hopeful he will be ready for a big summer of cricket."

Australia: Clarke (capt), Haddin, Harris, Hazlewood, Johnson, Lyon, Marsh, Rogers, Siddle, Smith, Warner, Watson

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