Tim Paine's new look Australian squad will take on Pakistan in a two-Test match series in the UAE next month and the captain is keen to use his pace battery effectively against his opponents. With injuries to regular fast bowlers Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, Australia have included a uncapped duo Brendan Doggett and Michael Neser in their squad and recalled veteran Peter Siddle for the two-match series next month.

“It’s going to be over 40 degrees and really high humidity so we’re going to have to be clever about how we use our bowlers,” Paine told reporters.

Australia have not won a test series in Asia since 2011 and their success this time could depend on left-arm quick Mitchell Starc, who picked up 24 wickets in Sri Lanka in 2016. The 28-year-old will return to action from a foot stress injury and Paine has hinted going a little off script to bring the best out of his trump card in grinding conditions. “I expect him to be bowling short spells and as fast as he can,” Paine added. “We’re hopeful – no, we’re sure – Starcy will have a really big series, and if he does, it will go a long way towards winning it for us.”

Pin further said that patience will be a key factor in the Test series as they will have to take the right opportunities when they come about to change the course in their favor. 

“I think games traditionally in the UAE take a long time so we are going to have to be really patient,” he said. “We have spoken about partnerships and patience and pressure, which is going to be a real key over there.”

Australia play the first test against Pakistan from Oct. 7 in Dubai, followed by the second test at Abu Dhabi from Oct. 16.

(With Inputs Indian Express)