Alec Stewart looks likely to return to England colours in the New Year, making his 126th Test appearance in Sydney.

Stewart missed the fourth Test in Melbourne with a bruised hand, but that has recovered, and the loss of Craig White with a torn side muscle makes Stewart's all-round abilities that much more important to the side.

"Alec is useful in that role for us and it's good if we can get another one in....he'll probably play because he seems fine now," said coach Duncan Fletcher.

"Craig is a big loss because he's bowling well for us and now he's got a lot of confidence in his batting. It's always useful to have one or two all-rounders."

With a turning wicket always likely at the SCG, White's replacement could be the Somerset all-rounder Ian Blackwell, who bowls slow left-arm.

Australia will be without their two best bowlers, Glenn McGrath having joined Shane Warne (dislocated shoulder) with a side injury.

Jason Gillespie and Brett Lee will play, with Andy Bichel the likely replacement for McGrath. Western Australia teammates Brad Williams and Brad Hogg are also in the Australian squad.

"It will be very interesting to see how Australia go now that both Warne and McGrath are out of their attack," said Fletcher.

"It's going to be interesting in this next Test - their team at Sydney will give them a little look into the future."

© CricInfo Ltd.