Hackett is undefeated in 10 years at the 1500m freestyle

Australian great Grant Hackett has been sidelined by shoulder trouble since claiming a record fourth consecutive world title in Montreal two years ago.

Davies, 22, won 2006 Commonwealth gold for Wales in Hackett's absence.

But he said: "The World Championships deserve the best swimmers and Grant's credentials speak for themselves."

Davies took bronze behind Hackett and American Larsen Jensen in the 1500m at the 2004 Athens Olympics and in Montreal.

Grant is an inspirational swimmer David Davies

He dismisses suggestions that the 26-year-old Australian - unbeaten in 10 years - may be at less than 100% following the injury, his engagement and a recent move from the Gold Coast to Melbourne under a new coach.

"He would not be here if he could not put in the best performance, Grant is very success driven," said Davies.

"Grant is an inspirational swimmer, he is the captain and will lead the team well."

The race is expected to be the fastest in history, with all the finalists predicted to go under 15 minutes.

As well as Hackett, Jensen and Davies, challenges are expected from rising Korean star Tae Hwan Park, European champion Yuri Prilukov - last year's world number one - and steadily improving Frenchman Sebastien Rouault, while home support will buoy Craig Stevens.

European record holder Davies, whose 2006 season was hampered by a foot infection, will only be competing in the 1500m and is looking to improve on his personal best of 14 minutes 45.90 seconds set in Athens.