Johnson doubtful for SCG Test

Australia's spearhead Mitchell Johnson is in doubt for the fourth Test against India after complaining of hamstring soreness.

Johnson did not travel to the SCG on Saturday for Australia's first training session following a heavy workload in the first three Tests of the summer, and will have his hamstring assessed closer to the start of the match.

However, the presence of Mitchell Starc and Peter Siddle in the home side's squad for the fourth Test provides plenty of options for the selectors at a time when they may also be conscious of granting Johnson some rest to ensure he is fresh ahead of the World Cup.

Earlier this week, Johnson said he would be talking to the captain Steven Smith and the coach Darren Lehmann about bowling shorter spells in Sydney, having endured longer stints on unresponsive pitches in Adelaide and Melbourne. Johnson's pace has been down this summer, another indicator he may be in need of a rest.

Starc is eager for another chance, something that would maintain his on again/off again status in the Test team - he has not played consecutive Tests since the 2013 India tour.