Chandigarh, Oct.16 : Victorian fast bowler Peter Siddle, 23, will make his Test debut in the second Test against India after Stuart Clark was declared unfit for participation because of a inflamed elbow.

"It's disappointing for Stuart, but I'm really pleased to be called up for my country and to get the chance to wear the baggy green," Fox Sports quoted Siddle, as saying.

"I'm looking forward to the chance of bowling to the top order," he added.

Australian skipper Ricky Ponting put a brave face on the loss of Clark, who in his 19 Tests has claimed a handsome 82 wickets at 22.06 to fill the sizeable hole left by Glenn McGrath.

"We've got what we've got, it's no good saying we're going to be disadvantaged going into the game because we've got 11 players who are going to be giving their best," Ponting said.

Ponting said he felt Siddle would be well and truly up to the task, becoming Australia's third debutant in as many Tests after Cameron White in Bangalore and the seemingly forgotten Beau Casson in Barbados.

Siddle has only played 12 first-class matches, but won over Australia's selectors by taking nine wickets in unforgiving conditions during the Sheffield Shield final in Sydney earlier this year.

His main question mark is a bowling shoulder that was operated on after that match, and which still affects his throwing from the outfield.

"He doesn't think too much about the outside distractions," said Ponting.

"I've looked at him pretty closely since I've been here and been very impressed with him. I don't think it will affect him too much.

"As far as his bowling goes he's ready, he's still a little restricted with his outfield throwing, but what he can give us with the ball is a real bonus for the side.

"He's got good pace, good presence, will keep running in for you ... a no-nonsense sort of guy and no-nonsense sort of bowler and you can't ask for any more than that."

Indian captain Kumble said the loss of Clark would be a sizeable blow to Australia's chances.

"Fitness concerns are there in both camps," he said.

"He's definitely a key bowler, if you look back at the last few matches he's played, he's had a wonderful record."

The PCA Stadium pitch remains something of a mystery, with bare patches but also a tinge of green to suggest there should be some early assistance for the seamers.

ANI