The four-match Test series against India will shape MacGill's future with Warne returning from a 12-month ban in February before the three-Test tour of Sri Lanka.

The 32-year-old MacGill is keenly looking forward to taking on the Indians for the first time and on Monday talked like a man who expected to be selected in Australia's XI for the first Test at the Gabba, starting on Thursday.

His position is in question with left-arm quick Nathan Bracken's good form and Brisbane's pace-friendly reputation leaving the selectors to float the thought of a four-prong fast bowling attack.

But MacGill's strong Gabba record, his ability to turn the ball away from the Indian right-handers and captain Stephen Waugh's penchant for a proven spinner will provide the opportunity to cement his place in the world's No.1 side.

"This series, whether I like it or not, is important in redefining me if you like," MacGill said on Monday.

"I'm either the replacement or I'm able to stand alone consistently.

"If I do well, or hold my own at least, against these guys I can be seriously considered as just another spin bowler rather than the stuntman.

"(Another) reason I want to do well is because they (India) are supposed to be the best players of spin in the world."

MacGill has enjoyed a great career in his own right.

He has 133 Test wickets at an average of 26.3 and possesses a strike-rate comparable to the likes of Dennis Lillee and Glenn McGrath.

"I think my ability to take the ball away from the right-handed batsman might be important considering most of the Indians are right-handed batsmen," he said.

Skipper Saurav Ganguly is the only left-handed batsman in a top-order heavily reliant on Sachin Tendulkar.

"My record at the Gabba is pretty solid, the last time I bowled here was in the Sheffield Shield final and I got five-for," said MacGill.

West Australian Brad Williams is under most pressure in the push for Bracken but has strong claims by virtue of a solid Test debut against Zimbabwe in Sydney where he took four wickets in the match.