Share

Clarke's future still no clearer

Brisbane - Australian cricket officials are still no closer to knowing whether Michael Clarke will be fit enough to play in next year's World Cup.

Clarke's future remains uncertain after he badly tore a hamstring during Australia's first test win over India last week.

He has already ruled himself out of the three remaining tests and is facing a race against time to be ready for the World Cup, starting in mid February.

"These are difficult circumstances given Michael's injury and the fact that we don't know how long he will be out of the game," Australian chief selector Rod Marsh said on Monday.

"What we do know is that it won't be an overnight fix."

Clarke's prospects could depend on the extent of the injury, the latest in a series of problems he has had with his back and hamstrings.

He has already consulted with a specialist who is expected to decide on the best way to treat the problem.

Cricket Australia announced on Monday that Steve Smith would take over as the new test skipper, but no decision had been made yet on the one-day team.

George Bailey is the current vice-captain and has filled in for Clarke before whenever the skipper has been sidelined.

"The next 24 to 48 hours will give us far better guidance on that process. But I think George Bailey has done a fantastic job," Australian team performance chief Pat Howard said.

"We're No 1 in the world. He's led the last two series, so all that was discussed."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Dolphins 119/4
Warriors RSA 161/4
loading... Live
Brighton and Hove Albion 0
Manchester City 0
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
64% - 443 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
36% - 244 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE