Allrounder James Faulkner has been included in Australia's Test squad for the two-match series against Pakistan in UAE. Faulkner is on standby for allrounder Mitchell Marsh, who has a hamstring strain.

Marsh was a strong contender to fill the allrounder vacancy created by the injury to Shane Watson but he strained his hamstring while playing for Perth Scorchers in the Champions League T20 in India. Cricket Australia reported Marsh had resumed jogging and batting in the nets but there was uncertainty whether he would be able to bowl at full capacity in the build-up to the first Test, which begins on October 22 in Dubai. The other option for the allrounder's spot is offspinner Glenn Maxwell.

Faulkner's inclusion was announced after Australia clinched the ODI series with a five-wicket win on Friday. Faulkner was part of the XIs that won the only Twenty international and the first two ODIs, and batted an No. 6 in all three games. He has played only one Test previously, at The Oval in 2013, when Australia lost the Ashes 3-0.

Australia will play the third ODI against Pakistan on October 12 in Abu Dhabi, and then travel to Sharjah for a four-day game against Pakistan A from October 15.

(Cricinfo)