Uncapped pair called up by Australia

Tasmanian batsman Birt, 28, boasts a strike rate of almost 130 in the Big Bash, while 20-year-old New South Wales all-rounder Smith looks to be an exciting prospect for the future and has been included in Australia's Test squad during the summer.

Michael Clarke will captain the side despite missing Sunday's final one-dayer against Pakistan, while Cameron White assumes the role of vice-captain.

Queensland fast bowler Ryan Harris, who took 13 wickets in three matches against Pakistan, has been included along with Victorian Dirk Nannes and South Australian speedster Shaun Tait.

Power-hitter David Warner has been selected along with Shane Watson, Shaun Marsh, David Hussey and wicketkeeper Brad Haddin.

National selection panel chairman Andrew Hilditch said the squad was chosen with one eye on the World Twenty20 in April.

"In selecting this squad, the NSP has taken into account the performances of players in international Twenty20 matches, the KFC Twenty20 Big Bash and also the correct balance of the side to be able to implement our match plans and tactics for Twenty20 cricket going into the world cup," he said.

"On this occasion there are significant changes between the one-day and Twenty20 side as we look at several players who could play a key role in our World Twenty20 campaign.

"The NSP has always regarded Twenty20 cricket as a separate form of the game and this selection has highlighted some players who we think can have an impact in Twenty20 cricket such as Dirk Nannes, Shaun Tait, David Warner, Travis Birt and Steve Smith.

"Travis Birt has shown really good white-ball form for several seasons now and we have picked him with a view to him playing a specific role in the middle order in the Twenty20 side.

"Steve Smith is obviously an extremely exciting prospect and performed well for NSW in the Champions League Twenty20 and KFC Twenty20 Big Bash and gives us great flexibility with his ability to bowl leg spin, bat and field.

"Ryan Harris also is someone who has been in the plans of the NSP for the World Twenty20. Ryan's chances have been limited by injury but he's now back to full fitness and playing very well."

Australia have five Twenty20 matches before the World Twenty20 where they opens their campaign against Pakistan on May 2.