Test spots up for grabs in Canberra

Seven Australians will have the chance to sure up their Test claims in a two-day red-ball warm-up against New Zealand in Canberra this weekend.

Usman Khawaja will captain the side that features four changes from the Prime Minister’s XI which is playing New Zealand at the same venue in a day-night pink-ball match on Friday.

Khawaja will be joined in the side by Shaun and Mitchell Marsh, Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Adam Voges and Peter Siddle.

Batsmen Bancroft, Burns and Khawaja are seen as leading contenders to fill the vacancies created by the retirement of opener Chris Rogers and ex-captain Michael Clarke, while Siddle has been left idle throughout the Matador BBQs One-Day Cup with the fast bowler’s services with the white ball not required by Victoria.

The Marsh brothers replace Mike and David Hussey from the PM’s XI team, while Queensland fast bowler Billy Stanlake comes in for state teammate Mark Steketee.

Western Warrior Sam Whiteman will take on wicketkeeper duties, replacing Ryan Carters, while spinner Ashton Agar has been given an opportunity in both Canberra tour matches following his call-up to Australia's one-day side in England.

Canberra product Ben Taylor has again been named 12th man.

Quick Single: Strong PM's XI named to face NZ

"Similar to the Prime Minister's XI squad, this two-day match will provide an opportunity for us to monitor a group of highly-rated players ahead of the first Test at the Gabba," National Selector Rod Marsh said.

"Shaun, Mitch and Sam all are all very talented players and we’re keen to see what they can produce against New Zealand.

"Billy Stanlake grabbed our attention when he made his debut in this year's Matador Cup with an intimidating display against South Australia, taking 3-43 from nine overs.

"This is also another good leadership opportunity for Usman Khawaja. He performed well when he captained Australia A side on the recent tour of India and this will allow him to build on that experience."

The team features seven players from Western Australia and three from Queensland - the two states who are confirmed to be eliminated from the Matador BBQs One-Day Cup. Victorian Peter Siddle has been included after being overlooked by his state for the one-day tournament. 

The NSW Blues are confirmed Matador Cup finalists and with Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia all currently still in contention to make the finals, the states have not been denied any of their star players to play tour matches. 

Tickets to the Cricket Australia XI match are available at the gate of Manuka Oval.

Those unable to make it to Friday’s PM’s XI match can be streamed LIVE and FREE from 2pm local time on cricket.com.au or the Cricket Australia Live App.

Cricket Australia XI: Usman Khawaja (c), Cameron Bancroft, Joe Burns, Adam Voges, Shaun Marsh, Mitchell Marsh, Sam Whiteman (wk), Ashton Agar, Peter Siddle, Jason Behrendorff, Billy Stanlake, Ben Taylor (12th).