Aussies settle on XI for Perth Test

Australia will play an unchanged XI for the first Test against New Zealand that begins in Perth on Thursday.

Coach Justin Langer had intimated on Tuesday that it was unlikely with skipper Tim Paine confirming at his Test eve press-conference.

The only hesitation from the home team could have been the rotation of the quick bowlers.

"We've been playing some really good cricket, happy with the way it's going so we're trying to get a consistent team together and as I touched on after Adelaide, the great thing is we've got guys that are performing really well," Paine said.

"That's what we wanted so we're going to go with the same team."

Paine also told reporters that the horses for courses selection could return for the quicks.

"We had a reasonable break in between these Tests, so I think it's something we'll probably look at Melbourne, Sydney, those Test matches, they're a bit tighter together.

"Our attack's been awesome. We've got a few guys here – James Pattinson, Michael Neser – that are ready to go if required.  

The first ball will be bowled at 1PM WST.

IMAGE: FILE