Australian fast bowler Glenn McGrath is fit to play in the fifth and final Ashes Test against England [Images], starting on Thursday, Australia Cricket said on Wednesday.

Australia had delayed naming their final 11 as McGrath tested his fitness in the nets at The Oval.

Captain Ricky Ponting [Images] told a news conference: "Glenn was asked to bowl two spells yesterday (Tuesday) and got through those really well.

"He almost plays as two bowlers in our team. He's probably our main strike bowler up front with the new ball and at the same time you can call on him to bowl some tight overs later. He's a vital player."

England lead the series 2-1 but Australia will retain the Ashes, which they have held since 1989, if they can win at The Oval.

McGrath, man of the match when Australia won the opening Test, missed the second Test with injured ankle ligaments. He also missed the fourth with a sore elbow, a problem which has continued to dog him.

Ponting said McGrath was sure of his fitness but added: "I wouldn't take him at 60 or 70 percent fitness. He has to be right to bowl not just on Thursday morning but every morning of the match."