Clarke is set fair for a long career in the Australian side

Clarke was named in Australia's squad on New Year's Eve for the triangular tournament against India and Zimbabwe.

He made his debut in the VB series 11 months ago against England at Adelaide but is yet to play in a Test.

However, Clarke is seen as a hot favourite to take Steve Waugh's place when he retires after the final Test against India in Sydney.

The 22-year-old right-hander from New South Wales averages 65.40 in 10 one-day internationals to date.

Jason Gillespie and Brett Lee, who were both ruled out of Australia's last limited-overs tour of India because of injury, returned to the 13-man squad in place of Brad Williams and Michael Kasprowicz.

Chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns said: "It's hard on Brad and Michael, who performed so well in India, but we only have room for so many fast bowlers in the squad.

"Brad and Michael's performances in India were very good and noted by selectors, but it's now up to those in the squad to take their opportunity."

Glenn McGrath and Darren Lehmann are due to return from injury at the time of the first match on 9 January and could enter the squad later.

Australia will be expected to win this season's instalment of the popular triangular tournament with some ease.

VB Series: All the fixtures

India reached the World Cup final in March but were thrashed by the Aussies on that occasion and were also beaten in three matches out of four at home to Australia in October and November.

Zimbabwe will struggle to beat either team, but they did run West Indies close in a series at home to Brian Lara's men in November.