Michael Clarke

[meninblue]

Michael Clarke is one of my favorite players, I lost some respect for him during the whole Katich axing ( even though it worked out great for Hants ), I'd lose more respect if he went to the IPL.

The Katich incident was a loss to Australia, given that the other opener was a make shift opener. Now we see two inexperienced test openers. It will be very sad if there was a personal grudge in dropping Katich.

Hants are the beneficiaries and they have caught the right fish. They really needed another prolific batter in the side. Given his availability i think they will field him for all 16 games.

[meninblue]

Michael Clarke has joined Pune Warriors for next two seasons of IPL.

Reference
http://www.espncricinfo.com/indian-premier-league-2012/content/story/559020.html

[andy]

[shankycricket]

And here I was thinking that players are signed to help you win matches

[meninblue]

:no

IMO this is more of a branding element to this move by Pune Warriors. Pune warriors perhaps needed some international star cricketer in their ranks who is popular. Remember Yuvi is out of this IPL season and it is a big blow to the brand. Maybe the Pune warriors will increase Indian and international fan base having got the Aussie captain. However, it will be very difficult for Clarke in IPL because of the less matches he will get to play due to WestIndies-Aus test series and then his back injury. Also he has found T20 to be a very tough format given his success in tests and ODI. Doubt he will change his approach towards batting. So cricket wise not such a good move by Pune warriors but yes there are other factors which have been considered by Pune Warriors given the huge pool of money they have. That's what IPL is also about.

[andy]

Michael clarke said he wouldnt play IPL, as he said when he had the chance to rest from international cricket, he would take it, so he was completely ready for international cricket.

[meninblue]

The toughest tour for Michael Clarke so far. Interesting tactics by Clarke in the tour opener against Leicestershire. Many changes in the batting order. Good that Johnson has got a game after a long layoff.

[meninblue]

Third double of the year for Michael Clarke. He is one of the big innings players now and when he gets set he ensures its a mamoth knock. Just not losing patience and determination after knocking 100 like many other specialist batters we are seeing. When he scored 300+ against India, it was alleged by few that it came against a bad bowling attack. Is Saffers attack bad too

Other good thing that i noticed about him is that he was taking quick singles even after crossing 150. It says a lot about his fitness.

A real captains knock that when the team were under real pressure to save a follow on.

[Aidan11]

1000 runs in 2012, even overshadowing Amla.

[Gingerfinch]

In the last year, before this match, Clarke is averaging 75 with the bat and 22 with the ball.

[from_the_stands]

Michael Clarke is the best player inn test cricket right now. An absolute run machine! Inheriting the captaincy has made him a much better player.

[Alviro Patterson]

Michael Clarke doesn't get the recognition he truly deserves in international cricket, suppose it's a blessing in disguise whilst Pup can do his thing whilst the world drools all over Amla.

[andy]

Michael Clarke is the best player inn test cricket right now. An absolute run machine! Inheriting the captaincy has made him a much better player.

amla's better mate

however

Clarke has been in stunning form, and the guy is class!

[shankycricket]

Michael Clarke is the best player inn test cricket right now. An absolute run machine! Inheriting the captaincy has made him a much better player.

amla's better mate

however

Clarke has been in stunning form, and the guy is class!

In your opinion, of course. Don't state it as a matter of fact.

[Making_Splinters]

If only he'd just bat three.