MELBOURNE: Joe Burns will make his Test debut batting No. 6 for Australia in the third Test against India beginning on Friday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australia captain Steve Smith confirmed his starting XI on Thursday morning, with Burns and paceman Ryan Harris coming into the side to replace fast bowler Mitchell Starc and injured all-rounder Mitch Marsh.

Burns has been opening the batting for Queensland this season, but Smith said he wanted to maintain continuity in his side, so Burns will take Marsh’s place in the order.

“Shane Watson (No. 3) is best suited at the top of the order ... Joe will slot in at No. 6,” Smith said.

“Mitch has been playing some pretty good cricket ... he was starting to find his feet.

Disappointing for him, but Joe Burns gets his opportunity on Boxing Day and it’s going to be a very special week for him.—AP

Published in Dawn, December 26th, 2014