Michael Clarke reflects on Chelmsford ups and downs

Australia captain Michael Clarke had mixed emotions after the third day of the tourists' Ashes warm-up match against Essex at Chelmsford.

Clarke was pleased with the performance of his bowlers as Essex slipped from 291-1 to 414 all out, Mitchell Starc claiming 6-51.

However, he now expects to be without Ryan Harris for the opening Test against England in Cardiff next week after the experienced bowler went for further scans on his knee problem.

The team’s batting could also be an issue after they struggled to 212-8 in their second innings - Clarke top-scoring with 77 - giving them a lead of 360.

"It was certainly good with the ball," Clarke told Sky Sports News HQ. "I thought the way we turned things around was exceptional and the fast bowlers deserve a lot of credit - Mitchell Starc obviously showed his class today.

"I won't judge the batting until we see Essex bat in this second innings. I think the wicket has dried out a lot, a couple of balls have gone through the top and it';s really two-paced now. So with a 360 lead I think we are in a pretty good position."

Looking ahead to Cardiff, Clarke confirmed Starc should be in Australia's starting XI.

"I think Starcy's always been in the first-Test team to be honest," he said. "He's shown over the last 12 months, in particular, how well he's been bowling, whether it be one-day cricket through the World Cup or even the Test matches.

"He bowled beautifully in the West Indies. He's bowling 150ks, tall and swinging it. It's not a bad weapon to have in your team."

Mitchell Marsh, who has hit two centuries on the tour so far, and Shane Watson are set to fight it out for the all-rounder’s spot in the first Test and Clarke admits it is a difficult call.

"The selectors have a tough decision to make, that's for sure," he said. "I think they both have their strengths and I think we've seen their strengths - they are both in good form.

"Mitch Marsh has obviously been outstanding with two hundreds, but Watto is batting really well and we have seen yesterday how important his bowling is. He is extremely consistent and he's swinging the ball.

"So either way, I think we are very lucky to have two fantastic all-rounders."

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Harris now looks almost certain to miss out at the Swalec Stadium, but Clarke remains hopeful he will be fit for the remainder of the tour.

"Fingers crossed for the tour," he said. "I think he will struggle for Cardiff, to be honest. I think he's probably a little bit short of game time but I'd love to see him play a part throughout this series.

"I've said a number of times how important he is to our team. He's a senior player and he's a wonderful bowler, so fingers crossed.

"We will find out more on Saturday. He's obviously going for another scan so I hope those come back positive."

Clarke was dismissed for a golden duck in the first innings but he was a content man after hitting 77 the second time around.

"It's always nice to spend time in the middle," he said. "I am really comfortable with my batting at the moment. I feel like I am hitting the ball really well and my feet are moving, most importantly.

"For me, it is just about building momentum up into Cardiff so to be able to spend some more time in the middle - it saves me batting in the nets - so that's a positive, especially after getting a golden duck in the first innings."

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