Inzamam-ul-Haq: all set for the big challenge ahead © AFP

Inzamam-ul-Haq has indicated that the underdog tag would suit Pakistan just fine in the three-Test series in Australia. Speaking to the media just before the squad's departure to Australia, Inzamam marked out Danish Kaneria, the 24-year-old legspinner, as a key member of the bowling attack.

"It is good that no one is rating us high. It means the pressure will be on the Australians as they have a reputation to play for," Inzamam said. "I am also happy that Kaneria is being underestimated as a bowler. But I think he is going to be our key bowler in Australia. The pitches there will help his style of bowling and he will get bounce and assistance. He will be very important for us."

Inzamam was also unconcerned about his side being subjected to sledging by the Australians. "Sledging has never been a major issue for me. I believe this is all part of the competitive nature of the sport. I am not concerned with the ability of my young players to handle any sledging tactics by the Australians," he said, before adding that his players weren't averse to giving it back if they copped it. "Our players are prepared to be tested mentally on the field. They know how the Australians play. We will not go complaining to anyone about sledging. We will give what we get from them."

Pakistan have never won a Test series in Australia, and have in fact lost their last two series against them - in Australia in 1999-2000 and in Sharjah and Colombo in 2002-03 - by 0-3 margins. However, Inzamam chose to look at some of their more memorable moments in Australia: "We have the 1992 World Cup win in Australia and our 2-1 win over Australia in the one-day series just two years ago as inspirational factors and we know that with a combined effort we can do that again."

Pakistan begin their tour with a warm-up one-day match against Cricket Australia Chairman's XI in Perth on December 7. They will then play Western Australia in a four-day game before the first Test at Perth from December 16.