Zimbabwe cricket captain Heath Streak said he would rely on the local knowledge of team coaches Geoff Marsh and Bruce Reid to guide them through next month's inaugural Test series against Australia.

Streak was named captain of a 15-strong Zimbabwe squad coached by former Australian Test players Marsh and Reid for the series comprising of Tests at Perth (October 9-13) and Sydney (October 17-21).

Marsh, Zimbabwe coach since October 2001, has linked with his former WA and Australian teammate to help prepare the squad for its demanding tour.

While Streak admitted touring Australia was a daunting task, the champion allrounder backed Marsh and Reid's "inside information" to help them through.

"With a coaching team of Geoff Marsh and Bruce Reid we will have the very best information and advice on the Australians and will be straining every sinew to put them under as much pressure as possible," he said.

"This first Test tour of Australia is a milestone in the history of Zimbabwe cricket.

"It offers us a fantastic opportunity to pit our skills against some of the best players in the world.

"We know that the cricket will be intense and we do not expect Australia to underestimate us or take the Tests lightly.

"Every player in the squad will be looking to learn from the tour and to advance his game."

Streak said the nucleus of the tour party contested the recent Test and one day series in England.

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