All-rounder Watson back in Australia squad

(CNN) -- Australia have recalled all-rounder Shane Watson for the first Test match against South Africa in Perth on December 17.

The 27-year-old flopped in the first Test against New Zealand -- scoring only six runs in two innings -- and was left out for the second match.

But during that time he impressed for his starte side Queensland, scoring 81 runs and taking seven wickets.

Off-spinner Jason Krejza is hoping to overcome an ankle injury to play his first Test in Australia, with Nathan Hauritz and Peter Siddle both left out.

Watson's inclusion puts further pressure on Andrew Symonds, who after scores of 26 and 20 in the opening Test against the Kiwis -- his first back following a suspension -- made a duck in the second game.

Krejza was one of the few highlights for Australia in the 2-0 Test series defeat in India, taking 12 wickets on his debut in Nagpur.

Chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch is confident the spinner will be able to play against the Proteas and said: "He has been picked subject to fitness but all reports suggest he'll be fit and will resume cricket for Tasmania this week."

Australia have only played South Africa once at the WACA ground, in 1995, when Brad Hodge made an unbeaten double century in the second innings as the Test finished in a draw.

Australia squad: Matthew Hayden, Simon Katich, Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Hussey, Michael Clarke, Andrew Symonds, Shane Watson, Brad Haddin, Brett Lee, Jason Krejza, Mitchell Johnson, Stuart Clark.