Fatigued Siddle, Hilfenhaus rested for Perth Test

Australia have rested Peter Siddle and Ben Hilfenhaus from their squad for the third and final Test against South Africa as the pace duo continue to recover after shouldering heavy workload in the last Test in Adelaide.

The pacemen toiled in baking heat in nearly five sessions during South Africa's second innings at Adelaide Oval after James Pattinson broke down with a rib injury during the match.

"Both players are still quite fatigued," Australia captain Michael Clarke said on Thursday.

Mitchell Starc, Josh Hastings, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Johnson were named as the four fast bowlers in the 12-man squad while all-rounder Shane Watson has also declared himself fit for bowling duties.

Australia need a victory at the WACA to return to the No. 1 spot after a gap of more than three years, while a third draw would keep South Africa as the world's top side in the longest form of the game.

Squad: Michael Clarke (captain), Shane Watson, David Warner, Ed Cowan, Ricky Ponting, Mike Hussey, Matthew Wade, Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hastings, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Johnson.

Photograph: Tim Wimborne/Reuters