VIRENDER SEHWAG Right-hand opening batsman; right-arm off-break bowler

FACTFILE Born: 20.10.1978 Team: Delhi Test debut: v South Africa, Bloemfontein 2001 ODI debut: v Pakistan, Mohali 1999

With his swivelling, punchy strokeplay and similar looks, Sehwag has drawn numerous comparisons with Sachin Tendulkar.

Even Sehwag will admit he has some way to go to emulate his idol, but after debuting with a century in 2001 India has come to expect.

A career-best 147 against West Indies in October last year saw his average top 53, but a succession of failures against New Zealand home and away saw it slip to below 40 for the first time.

Arrested his minor slump in riveting fashion with 130 against the Kiwis in Mohali recently, a knock which crucially will give this confidence player a boost ahead of his first battles against Australia.

As is their way, the Australians will look to unsettle Sehwag from the outset, so his character is set for as much of an examination as his technique.