The Tasmanian has been named ahead of the more experienced Ian Harvey in a 13-man squad for next month's three-match Super Challenge II series against Pakistan.

Watson has only managed 37 runs and one wicket in four appearances so far but is seen as a player of immense potential.

"The past six months have been a whirlwind. Touring South Africa with the Australian side was the highlight of my career to date, so I just can't wait to play international cricket again," he said.

There are no real surprises in the squad, with Harvey and off-spinner Nathan Hauritz the players omitted from the 15 which beat South Africa 6-1 earlier this year.

Ricky Ponting retains the captaincy and there is no room once again for the Waugh twins, Steve and Mark, even though both are still hoping to force their way into the World Cup squad.

Three members of the squad - Michael Bevan, Andy Bichel and Darren Lehmann - are currently playing county cricket in England.

Australia will meet Pakistan on 12, 15 and 19 June, the first two indoors at Melbourne's Colonial Stadium and the final game at the Gabba in Brisbane.

"I have only experienced Colonial Stadium as a spectator, so to play there will be a great thrill, particularly as it will be the first time I have represented Australia in front of a home crowd," Watson added.

Australia beat Pakistan in the 1999 World Cup final and last year's NatWest Series final in England, but the tourists are in excellent form and recently beat New Zealand 3-0 in a one-day series on home soil.

Australian squad: R Ponting (capt), A Gilchrist (vice-capt), M Bevan, A Bichel, J Gillespie, M Hayden, B Lee, D Lehmann, J Maher, D Martyn, G McGrath, S Warne, S Watson.