The game is in his blood and his aggression, competitiveness and toughness got him the nod, despite his batting numbers being far from convincing.
Captain Michael Clarke knew about Faulkner's selection when he addressed the media on Monday and said then that "this is not a charity tour''.
However, Faulkner will be looking for a big performance to dispel naysayers who may argue his debut is a "dead rubber'' selection.
Faulkner made 89 in this year's Shield Final against Queensland, and says surviving Ryan Harris was the right preparation for the Test furnace.
He's happy Harris is on his team this time around, but is confident he has what it takes to bat in the top 7 for Australia.
"I wouldn't like to think it's daunting, I'd like to think it's a good opportunity that I've been given and it's a privilege,'' Faulkner said.
"I've just got to go out there and back my preparation and my skill and let it take over.
"I look back at that innings (against Queensland) as one of my best.
"There was a new ball and then reverse swing later on, so it was quite tough and Harris is one of the best.
"The last couple of seasons I think my batting has improved a hell of a lot.
"I've been lucky enough to play some finals for Tasmania ... hopefully it keeps me in good stead.''
The biggest influence on Faulkner's career has been his father, Peter.
Faulkner has spoken about how intense his backyard sessions were with his dad, but says he was never pushed.
When he was 16 he told his father to step aside from his post as head selector.
But his father was still the first person Faulkner called upon receiving the shock news from Rod Marsh on Monday that he was to make his debut - giving him enough time to travel to London in time to watch.
Faulkner is best known to Australian fans for the fierce send-off he gave Chris Gayle in a one-day international last summer, which resulted in him being fined 10 per cent of his match fee.
"There were a few cheeky grins in the family,'' he said.
"I don't think mum was too impressed.''
-AAP
