Alex Carey has backed Mitchell Starc to be ready for the fifth and final Test of the series against India despite doubts over the fast bowler's fitness.

Starc first showed signs of discomfort during the first innings in Melbourne, but was able to play a key role in the dramatic victory push where he claimed Virat Kohli on the final day.

He was sent for back scans after clutching his ribs and side in the latter stages of Australia's thrilling 184-run victory in the fourth Test, which earned Australia a 2-1 series lead.

Starc has 15 wickets at 28.73 in the four Tests and was unfortunate not to claim more than one wicket in Melbourne, with Carey confident of him adding to that total on Thursday.

"He'll be fine. He'll push through," Carey said. "I've played with Starcy for a long time now, and [he's] one of the toughest cricketers I've played with.

He'll grimace, he'll grab his ribs, no doubt, but he'll be ready for the contest."

Ending 2024 on a high.

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The win in Melbourne means Australia can claim the series, and with it the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with a draw in Sydney.

Carey stressed, however, that he and his team-mates would be pushing for another victory to seal the series in style.

"To go into this last game 2-1 up is great for the group, but it's another opportunity to win a test match," he said.

"We always play to win the game and then work backwards from there.

"(We're in) a good position, but I think this group's really keen to come here, put our good foot forward from day one and see what happens."