Fitness concerns continue to plague Clarke

Uncapped Hazlewood also named in squad after strong ODI performances

SYDNEY: Injured Australian skipper Michael Clarke said he will miss a warm-up match leading to the first Test against India, raising fresh doubts about his chances of playing in the clash next month.

Clarke, who was named in the 12-man Australia squad announced on Monday, subject to a fitness test on his left hamstring, was selected to play for a Cricket Australia XI match against the tourists in Adelaide on Friday.

However, Clarke later confirmed that he will not be playing in that match, placing his position in the Test squad in doubt.

“The medical team in the Australian side have ruled me out of that game,” said Clarke.

However, the skipper said he was hopeful of playing in a Sydney club game at the weekend to prove his fitness, if he was allowed to take part. “I would hope with my experience that the selectors, my team-mates, Cricket Australia, will all respect my opinion,” he said.

Chief selector Rod Marsh had earlier suggested that Wednesday was the deadline for Clarke to get himself ready to play in the Adelaide match and if he played and recovered well, he would take his place in the Brisbane Test side.

 

No possible Test replacement has been named.

Uncapped New South Wales paceman Josh Hazlewood was rewarded with a call-up to the squad for his strong recent performances against South Africa in the ODIs; his first inclusion in a Test squad since 2012-13.

The 23-year-old took nine wickets in the series against South Africa, which Australia won 4-1 to return to the top of the International Cricket Council ODI rankings on Sunday.

"Josh is a young player of great talent and he thoroughly deserves this opportunity," said Marsh.  "He has impressed in the recent ODI series and we are excited to see what he can produce if given the opportunity in Brisbane."

Meanwhile, paceman Ryan Harris also returns to the national squad following knee surgery and will play in this week's round of Sheffield Shield matches as part of his build up to the opening Test from December 4.

 

 

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