Australia will on Sunday get a better idea on whether all-rounder Shane Watson can play in the first Ashes Test against England, which starts on Thursday.

Watson's right hamstring strain will be assessed by Cricket Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris in Brisbane.

However, the 25-year-old Queenslander remains in doubt to start the series.

If Watson is ruled out, he is likely to be replaced by batsman Michael Clarke, who was added to the Test squad as cover.

Clarke will bat for NSW against Tasmania in a domestic one-day match in Hobart before he flies to Brisbane.

England will get its last competitive hit-out before it begins its Ashes defence, as the tourists will resume batting on the final day of their three-day cricket match against South Australia at Adelaide Oval.

England will resume on 6-303, a lead of 56 over the Redbacks, who declared at 7-247.

England captain Andrew Flintoff (six not out) and wicketkeeper Geraint Jones (14 not out) will be after one more decent innings before the bowlers get another work-out.

Sunday's final day is also an important one for SA paceman Shaun Tait, who is one of three candidates to fill the remaining fast bowler's spot in the Australian side.

Tait walked off the ground late Saturday afternoon with cramp but is expected to resume bowling on Sunday.

England will also be better-positioned to know about the fitness of fast bowler Steve Harmison, who withdrew from the tour match because of tightness in his side, but at least bowled in the nets.

Harmison is expected to recover to play in Brisbane.

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