Keeping in mind the grueling 77-day Australia tour, Zaheer Khan might be rested in the third Test against Pakistan in Bangalore.

The left-arm medium-pacer, who has been in fine form ever since his return to the India team last year, will be the team’s spearhead during the all-important tour Down Under.

With Sreesanth been advised surgery and RP Singh, the other in-form bowler, rested, the selectors may not be willing to take any chances with Zaheer. Delhi’s Ishant Sharma, who is busy playing Ranji Trophy at the moment, could be Zaheer’s replacement, to bowl alongside Munaf Patel.

The 16-member squad, to be named for the tour of Australia, will primarily depend on the choice of five medium-pacers, and Sreesanth is already in doubt.