From AAP
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
AUSTRALIAN selectors had one eye on the present and another the future when they recalled batsmen Usman Khawaja and Joe Burns for next week's first Test.
Burns will open alongside David Warner in Brisbane, while Khawaja is expected to bat at first drop against New Zealand.
The Queensland pair were picked in the 12-man squad ahead of would-be debutant Cameron Bancroft and veteran Shaun Marsh.
They boast intimate knowledge of the Gabba and are rated long-term players by chairman of selectors Rod Marsh.
"Usman is a very good player of fast bowling and is a fine technician. We feel he will make a really solid contribution towards our batting this series," Marsh said on Friday.
"Joe thoroughly deserves his chance and was unlucky to miss out on the West Indies and Ashes tours.
"He also put in terrific performances during the recent Australia A series in India."
Khawaja hasn't played for Australia since the 2013 Ashes, while Burns played two Tests under Steve Smith against India last summer.
Both men scored centuries for a Cricket Australia XI in last weekend's tour match against New Zealand at Manuka Oval.
"We will need to play at our best to beat a very talented New Zealand side," Marsh said.
"We think this squad has the goods to do it and also provides an opportunity for some exciting younger players to make their mark in the Test arena."
Burns made his ODI debut in England earlier this year, opening with Warner.
The 26-year-old batted at No.6 in his two Tests, however he earned his baggy green with some impressive performances in Queensland's top order.
The rest of the squad is as expected, with allrounder Mitch Marsh and veteran batsman Adam Voges both retained.
Selectors included the five bowlers they used in this year's Ashes - Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Peter Siddle.
It is a time of transition for the national side following the retirements of Michael Clarke, Shane Watson, Chris Rogers, Brad Haddin and Ryan Harris.
The three-Test series, which will be Smith's first as permanent captain, starts at the Gabba on Thursday.
Australia's 12-man squad: David Warner, Joe Burns, Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith (capt), Adam Voges, Mitch Marsh, Peter Nevill, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Peter Siddle.
