Gilchrist tips Bracken for Test call-up

With Glenn McGrath ruled out of contention for the Test matches in Brisbane and Adelaide, Adam Gilchrist reckoned there'd be a fair old scrap for a place in Australia's pace bowling line-up for the first Test. There are fitness doubts over Brett Lee as well, and both Nathan Bracken and Brad Williams - who impressed during the TVS Cup in India - are in direct opposition for a place in the starting eleven.

Bracken picked up eight wickets in the three matches against India, nailing Virender Sehwag in every game. "It must be pretty tight between Nathan and Brad," said Gilchrist. "They both bowled exceptionally well over in India. Williams did a good job in the Test match he played [against Zimbabwe in Sydney] but Nathan is another option for us as a left-armer. It's going to be difficult to choose between them."

According to Gilchrist, the upcoming series would be Australia's "toughest challenge", given that India's batting line-up had the potential to be every bit as effective as Australia's. "They have got new young tearaway quicks who are pretty aggressive which is not their traditional way, and of course they have got fantastic spinners," he added. "It will be crucial how much momentum they are allowed to build-up. We will be chasing that early momentum".

Australia haven't lost a Test at the 'Gabba in Brisbane since 1988-89.