Graham Onions missed out despite good performances in the first two tests of the summers against the West Indies.

England won the toss and chose to bat which will give Panesar and Graeme Swann the chance to bowl at the Aussies on a fourth innings pitch.

Australia sprang something of a surprise in the their selection with Ben Hilfenhaus chosen ahead of Stuart Clark.

Ponting would have batted had he won the toss but was happy with Hilfenhaus's selection: "I was going to bat obviously, but I think the ball might swing around in the morning."

The Australians are seeking to retain the Ashes having won the last series 5-0.