Doolan has been called up to the Test squad as cover for Watson, who hurt his groin during Australia's convincing win over England in the Boxing Day Test.

Doolan, 29, rose to prominence last summer with an unbeaten 161 for Australia A against the touring South Africans and began this year's Sheffield Shield season with a match-winning century against NSW.

Ryan Harris is also in doubt for the Sydney Test because of a chronic knee problem.

However, the selectors omitted Doug Bollinger from the squad, leaving bowling all-rounder James Faulkner and WA quick Nathan Coulter-Nile as the reserve pacemen.

Coach Darren Lehmann indicated after the win in Melbourne that Watson could be left out of the team if he was unable to bowl despite helping Australia to victory with an unbeatn 83 at the MCG.

“With some players still being assessed by our medical team after four demanding Tests, we have decided to add Alex to ensure we have sufficient cover in our batting line-up should it be required," said national selector John Inverarity.

“Alex is a talented player who came under strong consideration for selection ahead of the Ashes series after a string of solid performances in four-day cricket for Tasmania at the start of this season, but also after an excellent finish to last season and we feel those performances warrant his inclusion in the squad of 14 for Sydney.

“Doug, who has been bowling impressively this season, has been released to play Big Bash League as the NSP feels there is sufficient cover with James Faulkner and Nathan Coulter-Nile also in the squad.”

Squad: Michael Clarke (c), Brad Haddin (vc), Chris Rogers, David Warner, Shane Watson, Alex Doolan, Steve Smith, George Bailey, James Faulkner, Mitchell Johnson, Ryan Harris, Peter Siddle, Nathan Lyon, Nathan Coulter-Nile.