Australian batsman Darren Lehmann has been ruled out of the four-Test home series against India while fast-medium bowler Glenn McGrath will miss at least the first two matches.

Lehmann, 33, has been sidelined since the first Test against Zimbabwe last month when he injured his Achilles tendon. He is still wearing a brace on his foot.

Lehmann said he hopes to return for the limited overs tri-series against India and Zimbabwe starting in January.

"That is now my target, but there's a lot of hard work to do before then to ensure I am 100 per cent fit," he said.

McGrath has not played for Australia since the mid-year series with Bangladesh after ankle surgery.

He has been cleared to return this weekend in the domestic first-class competition, but does not expect to be ready for international competition until the third Test.

"I think it's a little bit early for the first two Tests," McGrath said. "Hopefully if all goes well I'll play a few games for New South Wales and be available for selection for the Boxing Day Test."

Australia will announce on Thursday the squad to play India in the first Test at Brisbane starting December 4.