Cricket World Cup: Michael Clarke hopeful of leading Australia at tournament
Wednesday 24 December 2014 13:00, UK
Australia captain Michael Clarke is recovering well from surgery on his torn hamstring and still hopes to lead his country at next year's World Cup.
Clarke, 33, tore his hamstring during the first Test against India and was ruled out for the series.
He then admitted he feared his career could be over. But an operation last week has been a success, and Clarke is hopeful he could recover in time for the World Cup, which takes place in Australia and New Zealand, starting on Valentine's Day.
"The biggest thing for me at the moment is getting back on the field for the World Cup," Clarke wrote in his column for News Ltd. Newspapers.
"I have been told by medical staff that I am in as good a condition as I can be a week after undergoing the surgery. There is no swelling and no pain when I walk.
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"I can't wait to begin stage two of the rehab process which involves starting to run again."
In his enforced absence, Steven Smith has been captaining the Test team, who have gone 2-0 up in their series.
Veterans Chris Rogers, Shane Watson and Brad Haddin have been struggling for runs but Clarke wants all three in the team to defend the Ashes next year in England.
"Personally, I hope all three of them are on the plane to England for next year's Ashes series," Clarke added. "They bring so much more to the table than just their batting.
"It's crucial to have experienced guys like these in a team when you're bringing through youngsters like Joe Burns," he said of the Queensland batsman expected to make his debut in the third Test against India at Melbourne this week.
"I know how much I benefited over the years from the knowledge passed down to me by the seniors, and I'm sure Joe will be no different. I wish him all the best."
Australia hold a 2-0 lead in the four-match series after winning in Adelaide by 48 runs and in Brisbane by four wickets.
Watch the Boxing Day Test between Australia and India live on Sky Sports 2, with coverage from 11.30pm on Christmas Day.
