McGrath took time out to be with his wife during her cancer treatment

The 36-year-old paceman has not played since January because of his wife's ongoing battle against cancer.

Chief selector Andrew Hilditch said: "The best way for Glenn to make his way back into international cricket is to play international cricket."

McGrath will return for Australia in this month's warm-up tri-series against India and the West Indies in Malaysia.

Shane Watson, beset by injuries in the past year, joins fellow all-rounder Andrew Symonds in the Aussie squad.

Left-arm paceman Mitchell Johnson wins a spot alongside McGrath, Brett Lee, Nathan Bracken and Stuart Clark.

"Shane Watson has had a difficult time with injuries, but we see him as a key man in this side," Hilditch said.

"There are plenty of exciting players in the squad and Shane is one of them."

Simon Katich retains his place in favour of Test opener Matt Hayden and Phil Jaques as a top-order batsman.

Vice-captain and wicket keeper Adam Gilchrist, rested for the tri-series against India and West Indies in Malaysia later this month, returns as expected.