Tim Paine will resist temptation to ensure Australia get the most bang for their buck out of Mitchell Starc against Pakistan.
The left-arm quick will return from a leg injury to lead the attack in a two-Test tour of the United Arab Emirates next month, with regular sidekicks Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins still recovering from back injuries.
Paine anticipates hot, humid and grinding conditions and has stressed the need for patience with both bat and ball.
But he's hinted their use of Starc may go a little off script, with the skipper wary of over-bowling his trump card in the search for wickets.
"We absolutely need to be really careful with all our quicks over there. It's going to be over 40 degrees and high humidity and we know he's a strike weapon," Paine said.
"I'd expect him to be bowling some short (spells) and trying to bowl as fast as he can.
"It's exciting to have his pace back, his experience and in those conditions his batting as well."
Spinners Jon Holland and Nathan Lyon are expected to play in the first Test from October 7.
But Starc's seam partners could be any of Queensland bolters Michael Neser and Brendan Doggett or recalled Victorian veteran Peter Siddle.
Siddle, 33, played the last of his 62 Tests two years ago but has forced his way back after taking 34 wickets at 15.32 in English county cricket this season.
All-rounder Mitchell Marsh returned to bowling during Australia A's recent tour of India while, if selected to make his debut, batsman Travis Head would provide another spin option.
Australia have arrived in the UAE and will play one four-day warm-up fixture before the first Test, with Paine anticipating new coach Justin Langer will allow him to have some input in his final XI.
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