Tasmania-based fast bowler Jackson Bird will make his debut for Australia in the second Test against Sri Lanka at the MCG starting on Boxing Day.

Bird comes in for left-armer Mitchell Starc who has been rested as part of Cricket Australia’s rotation policy.

West Australian quick Mitchell Johnson has been named to replace the injured Ben Hilfenhaus.

Michael Clarke has been named to captain the team despite being in doubt with a hamstring injury.

Bird has had an outstanding two seasons in Sheffield Shield cricket for Tasmania.

The lanky right-armer has taken 87 wickets at 19.72 in 17 matches during that time.

Team: Michael Clarke (capt), David Warner, Ed Cowan, Phil Hughes, Shane Watson (vc), Mike Hussey, Matt Wade, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Lyon, Jackson Bird.