Burns comfortable at top of the order

Joe Burns says he feels comfortable in his role as Australia's opener ahead of a potential selection squeeze following the first Test against the West Indies in Hobart.

With Usman Khawaja (hamstring) set to return for the Boxing Day Test against the Windies in Melbourne, selectors may have to consider another batting order reshuffle 

Khawaja struck 174 and 121 against New Zealand before breaking down with a hamstring injury in the second Test in Perth.

The 28-year-old on Wednesday said he was "ahead of schedule" in his race to be fit for the second Test against the Windies at the MCG, but said he still has work to do before he proves his fitness.

Quick Single: Khawaja targets first Boxing Day Test

Khawaja's replacement Shaun Marsh pleased coach Darren Lehmann with a pivotal 49 on Sunday that helped steer Australia home to a tight win in the historic day-night Test, and can boost his chances of retention in the side with a big score in Hobart.

Burns has managed scores of 40, 0, 14 and 11 at the top of the order since his sparkling 129 in the Gabba Test against the Kiwis, which came on the back of a polished 71 in the first innings.

WATCH: Joe burns New Zealand at The Gabba

The Queenslander admitted he wanted another "big score" but said he was not feeling any pressure ahead of the first Test in Hobart starting on December 10.

"With the role I feel really comfortable," Burns said.

"It's where I have had success and that success has led to selection for Australia.

"I take a lot of confidence from that.

"I haven't had any real feedback (from Lehmann in regards to ongoing selection) - I know what my job is."

While the eighth-ranked West Indies are expected to struggle against the Australians, Burns and opening partner David Warner will be tested by the tourists' dangerous fast bowlers.

Spearhead Jerome Taylor will be ably supported by captain Jason Holder and right-armer Kemar Roach, Burns's former teammate at Brisbane Heat.

Burns says Roach, who famously forced Ricky Ponting to retire hurt during a Test in Perth six years ago, struck him "a lot in the ribs in the nets" during their time together at the Heat.

"I think they have a pretty decent new ball opening partnership with Kemar Roach and Jerome Taylor," Burns said.

Image Id: ~/media/21ED2266E8FF48F6A2BD73DA4547B831

Burns got to know Kemar Roach during the BBL // Getty

"It is exciting to play against the West Indies, it was a team I grew up watching.

"They have shown over a long period win, lose or draw, they are worth watching.

"And in international cricket there are no easy games. You have to make sure you are switched on."

Australia's top order will face another difficult task in February in the return series against the Black Caps, in conditions that should suit Kiwi swingers Trent Boult and Tim Southee.

Burns was twice undone by the lively pink ball on a green surface in Adelaide, but isn't worried about his third Test display.

"I think it was the nature of the wicket, having a bit more grass on it, every ball seemed to nibble a little bit, and when you got a good ball it was very hard not to get out," Burns said.

"As an opening batter your job changes from innings to innings.

"I guess it is always nice to make more runs, you always want to make more.

"But at the end of the day to win the series convincingly (2-0) is a very satisfying feeling."