Clarke to remain at home

Australia vice-captain given compassionate leave

Last updated: 9th May 2008

Australia vs India Third Test: Michael Clarke fifty

Clarke: Staying in Sydney

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Australia vice-captain Michael Clarke will miss the start of the three-Test tour to the West Indies for "private family reasons".

Clarke has been given compassionate leave by Cricket Australia to remain in Sydney, meaning he will not travel with the rest of the squad to the Caribbean on Saturday.

Australia play the first Test in Jamaica on May 22, before moving to Antigua for the second from May 30 with the final Test in Barbados on June 12. The tour also includes one Twenty20 international and five-one dayers.

A statement from CA read: "Clarke's arrival date in the West Indies is currently unclear."

Michael Hussey will be handed the role as vice-captain in the interim, while Brad Hodge has been named as a "shadow player" to cover for Clarke.

"Despite the circumstances it is a huge honour to be given the role of vice-captain, even if it may only be for a short period of time," Hussey said.