Zimbabwe captain Heath Streak says a strong sense of belief in their own ability will help the African side take the fight to Australia in the two-Test series.

Steve Waugh's Australia, with series wins over England, West Indies and Bangladesh this year, will start Thursday's first Test in Perth as overwhelming favourites.

Streak is the only world-class bowler in the touring team's attack and the batting also looks thin but the skipper maintains the series could be closer than most people predict.

"I don't think it (playing against Australia) requires miracles," Streak, 29, told reporters in Perth on Wednesday.

"I have a lot of belief and I think if we play to our potential and abilities (and) on our day, if we take those half chances and really lift our game, we'll be a tough and formidable opposition.

"We're looking forward to a tough series. We're not out here to roll over and be beaten.

"We're here to challenge the world champions and show them the spirit and keenness that Zimbabweans are known for."

Zimbabwe, who suffered two innings defeats against England in May-June and are ranked ninth by the International Cricket Council, have yet to finalise their team.

The tourists will give bowlers Ray Price, Douglas Hondo and Gary Brent until Thursday morning to prove their fitness.

Australia and Zimbabwe have met just once in a Test match when Australia won by 10 wickets in Harare in October 1999 despite Streak's 5-93 in Australia's first innings.

The Australians have not lost a home Test series since 1992-93 against West Indies.

"Obviously it's something that doesn't come around that very often, playing the world champions, so we'll be very focused and keen to get out there and impress," added Streak, who has taken 187 wickets in 53 matches.

Zimbabwe squad: Heath Streak (captain), Tatenda Taibu, Dion Ebrahim, Trevor Gripper, Mark Vermeulen, Stuart Carlisle, Craig Wishart, Craig Evans, Andy Blignaut, Sean Ervine, Ray Price, Doug Hondo, Gary Brent.