Clarke ready for West Indies

Michael Clarke drives through cover en route to a century for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield clash with Tasmania

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Australia vice-captain Michael Clarke has declared himself fit for the first Test against West Indies after his suspect back came through a solid workout in the Sheffield Shield.

Clarke spent almost four hours compiling a first-innings century for New South Wales against Tasmania, and fielded for 58 overs, in only his second game following almost two months out.

He will continue to receive daily treatment in the lead-up to the game, which gets under way next Thursday, but is convinced his troublesome back can handle five days of cricket.

Clarke is also willing to bowl in the Test at the Gabba, the squad for which will be announced tomorrow.

“I’m obviously more confident now in just being able to bat for that amount of time and being able to wake up feeling pretty good is a positive,” he said. “I wouldn't play (if I could not contribute).

“I need to be able to give the team 100% because if I can't there is someone else there that can and will perform better than me.

“I wouldn't dare go into a Test match not knowing if I could give 100% in all areas. I believe I have to be 100% in all facets to take the field for my country next week.”

After failing with the bat in NSW's Ford Ranger Cup loss to Tasmania on Sunday, Clarke was determined to occupy the crease for as long as possible in the Sheffield Shield game.

“It's good to spend some time in the middle,” he added. “I needed the hit. I didn't feel that comfortable in the one-dayer the other day - I felt very scratchy - so it was good to spend some time in the middle.

“The confidence of getting back into the game and scoring some runs and having that 60 overs out in the field has given me a lot of confidence. I'm feeling more comfortable every day.”