Andrew Strauss (10/3 Top England 1st Innings Batsman) feels he is “comfortable with his technique” to withstand the threat posed by the Australia bowlers, who have said they plan to target the England skipper.

In the build-up to the Ashes series, the home side have pinpointed Strauss and Kevin Pietersen as the key men in England’s batting line up.

The captain is certainly happy enough to be under the spotlight, with the time for talking almost over as the teams prepare to clash at the Gabba (Australia 11/10, Draw 11/4, England 2/1 - 1st Test Betting) on Thursday.

Strauss (7/2 Top England Test Series Batsman) has scored three Test centuries against Australia and although all have come on home soil, the opener is confident he can cope with the Australian attack.

The Middlesex man said: “I’m happy having the attention on me if that’s how it needs to be. As captain, your general demeanour is important in situations like that first morning. That’s where experience is important.”

Strauss and co will now know that they face the prospect of coming up against Peter Siddle, who has been selected ahead of Doug Bollinger for the first Test at the Gabba.

Spinner Xavier Doherty (7/1 Top Australia Test Series Bowler) has been picked instead of Nathan Hauritz, with the media suggesting the Aussies feel the left-hander will cause Pietersen problems.

Meanwhile, Australia vice-captain Michael Clarke will play in Brisbane having been passed fit following back problems.