Head has short net session, in doubt for Boxing Day Test

Should Head not play, the uncapped Josh Inglis, the spare batsman in the touring squad and an aggressive middle-order batter, shapes as the likely replacement. Like Head, Inglis can turn a game with brutal strokeplay.

Another consideration would be all-rounder Beau Webster, although he has joined the squad predominantly as cover for Mitch Marsh. Webster can bowl medium-pace and, if required, off-spin.

Marsh has had a disappointing campaign to date, but worked diligently on his batting. However, it remains questionable whether the all-rounder can carry even a moderate bowling load because of the threat of back soreness. On Tuesday, he bowled off his full run in the nets.

Teenage sensation Sam Konstas was in good touch in the nets and appears set to become the fourth-youngest Test debutant in Australian history. Konstas has replaced the axed Nathan McSweeney, declaring he is ready to partner Khawaja at the top of the order where he will face the challenge of negating Indian superstar Jasprit Bumrah on a pitch curator Matt Page says will aid fast bowling.