Damien Martyn's renowned laid-back attitude was noticeably absent from Australian cricket training, especially as his replacement nearly injured himself in his desire to impress.

As Martyn enjoyed retirement on a Hawaiian beach, West Australian Adam Voges was so bull-at-a-gate in his efforts to make his Test debut this week he was told by captain Ricky Ponting to cool down.

Voges bruised a hand during a fielding drill as he sought to stand out during his first training session with the national squad.

The 27-year-old is vying with allrounder Andrew Symonds to play in the third Ashes Test against England in Perth, which starts Thursday.

Voges got to know his squad colleagues a little bit more on Sunday night when the 13-man squad met at the home of opener Justin Langer, for a barbecue.

But while Voges was fairly relaxed, it was only natural his nerves would show during his first run in national colours.

"This morning at training, he did seem a little bit nervous, but watching him he enjoyed himself," Symonds said.

"He went really hard in the fielding and bruised his hand, and Ricky had to tell him to sit down.

"His enthusiasm is really exciting for us and you can see he's really enjoying it."

Who replaces Martyn won't be known until Thursday morning, but Symonds admitted his friend's sudden and surprising decision to quit had left a void in the side.

"He will be missed, but we just hope he is happy," he said.

"We haven't had contact with him, hopefully when we do speak to him he is happy.

"It was a shock, but that is Marto as well."

The other new face at Australian training belonged to John Worsfold, coach of AFL premier West Coast, who told the players of the journey his club had taken to develop a champion side.

Given Australia could have the Ashes in its hands within a week, Symonds said a new speaker with a different perspective on success had been valuable.

"It was interesting to have a fresh face in front of you and to listen to some of the things he has done with the Eagles," Symonds said.

"When someone new talks to you, you do probably subconsciously take things in."

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