Uncertainty continues over Clarke's participation in 4th Test
Clarke suffered back spasms in a fielding drill during the Mohali Test, is is an injury doubt heading in to the Delhi Test, which begins on Friday.
- Press Trust of India
- Updated: March 21, 2013 04:44 PM IST
Recovering from a back spasm, Australian captain Michael Clarke trained with the team ahead of the fourth Test against India but remained a doubtful starter for the match, beginning on Friday.
"I still have 24 hours, just need to make sure my treatment goes off well. I'll take the call on the morning of the match," said Clarke at the pre-match conference.
"It's the same disc issue I've battled on and off since I was 17. I have to make sure that I'll remain injury-free for the next assignment. I'll have to first assess my injury and then take a call. I haven't missed a Test through injury since my debut in 2004 and I'll do everything to keep it that way ahead of the fourth Test."
Clarke suffered back spasms during a fielding drill in the Mohali Test.
He also supported Watson's candidature for captaincy in case he fails to recover in time.
"Shane is an important part of our team, there's no doubt about it. He hasn't performed that well in the first Two Tests. But if Shane can come up with his best cricket in the final game, it will be a big bonus for us," said the skipper.
"It would be really satisfying if we could go back home after winning the last Test. We need this win under our belt," he said.
Watson has reunited with the team after being dropped for the third Test in Mohali for failing to submit a presentation on team performance. He flew back home to be with his wife who gave birth to their first child.
Clarke said he will continue to undergo treatment till the start of match.
"At this stage it is still doubtfull that I will be fit enough to play but I've been given every opportunity. I'll have plenty of treatment leading up to the start of the game," he concluded.