Australia lose Clarke

Michael Clarke, who is to return home, has not featured for Australia since the last match of the NatWest Series

Australia suffered a huge blow to their hopes of retaining the ICC Champions Trophy with the confirmation that Michael Clarke is returning home due to a lower back injury.

Vice-captain Clarke missed Australia’s two Group A games so far; a 50-run win against West Indies on Saturday and yesterday’s rain-ruined draw with India.

Australia, who have already replaced paceman Nathan Bracken with Doug Bollinger due to a knee injury, will announce Clarke’s replacement in due course.

Cricket Australia physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said: “Michael has had lower back pain since the latter part of the one-day series in England.

“On arriving in South Africa the pain has intensified and he has not been able to participate in any of the team’s training sessions.

“He has received intensive treatment but it is apparent that he will not be able to take any part in the remainder of this series.

“As such Michael will return home to continue his treatment and return to playing as soon as possible.”