Glenn McGrath, Australia’s most successful Test fast bowler, expects Starc to be desperate to play in his home Test.

“When he’s on fire, he’s as good as anyone going around,” McGrath said ahead of another pink Test at the SCG. “He’s been bowling incredibly well.

“Fingers crossed. He’s pulled up as well he can … Australia want to go in with their best team. I hope Mitchell starts out [on] day one.”

Sources close to the team, speaking on the condition of anonymity, say Marsh is likely to retain his spot at No.6 in the batting order. All-rounder Beau Webster bowled and batted in the nets on Wednesday, but Australia’s dramatic victory has certainly improved Marsh’s chances of playing despite a lean run with the bat.

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The other clue was that Marsh batted in the nets with his regular partners in the top and middle order. The only member of Australia’s top six from Melbourne who didn’t feature in the nets was opener Sam Konstas, who opted for a gym session. He will bat on Thursday.

“I think whenever we’ve put someone in the spotlight, the true Aussie way is to show them how good they are. I think that’s Mitch’s time,” Carey said.

Sydney’s notoriously wet weather around the SCG Test looks much better this year, with only light rain forecast on days four and five.

“There’s always jokes about it,” said Carey of the weather. “I think this wicket sets up really well for a good Test match. It looks like there’ll be a bit in it early. There’s nice grass coverage.”

Australia need only a draw to win a Border-Gavaskar series for the first time in 10 years but say they’ll be playing positive cricket.

“We always play to win the games and then, I guess, work backwards from there,” Carey said.

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