George Bailey will make his Test debut in the Ashes series opener at the Gabba starting on Thursday week.

Tasmania skipper Bailey, 31, was selected in a 12-man Australian squad named on Tuesday on the back of his remarkable one-day international form including the recent tour to India where he amassed 478 runs at 95.6 when also serving as captain.

Selectors will be hoping he can provide much-needed middle order stability, much as another late bloomer, Mike Hussey, used to do.

David Warner retains his spot at the top of the order, partnering Chris Rogers, after thrashing four centuries in the past month, including 104 off just 88 balls for NSW against Victoria in last week’s Sheffield Shield clash at the MCG.

And Mitchell Johnson returns as Australia’s third paceman alongside Ryan Harris and Peter Siddle.

The 32-year-old left-armer last played Test cricket in Australia’s fourth Test loss to India in March and will be keen to further distance memories of his 2009 Ashes series struggles in England.

Nathan Lyon is the Test spinner after selectors overlooked Victorian leggie Fawad Ahmed.

Allrounder James Faulkner is included as the likely 12th man and cover for Shane Watson, who is carrying a hamstring injury.

England are vying for a record fourth straight Ashes series win, having won the last series 3-0 at home earlier this year.

Australian squad: Michael Clarke (capt), David Warner, Chris Rogers, Shane Watson, Steve Smith, George Bailey, Brad Haddin, Mitchell Johnson, Peter Siddle, Ryan Harris, Nathan Lyon, James Faulkner.