Cloud over Clark's availability for third Test

[Bublu Bhuyan]

Link: http://cricketnext.in.com/news/cloud.../35083-13.html

Uncertainty continues to prevail over Stuart Clark's availability for the crucial third Test against India as the Australian fast bowler looked far from being fully fit during the brief practice session on Saturday.

Clark, who missed the second Test in Mohali due to elbow injury, bowled around eight overs at a pace much below his normal speed at Ferozeshah Kotla ground here.

In a bid to improve the reverse swing technique, Clark also had experiments with wrist and seam position but was tentative and ensured that he does not exert much.

Even though Clark said he was happy with his progress, he had ice treatment of the elbow after the session.

"It is okay today but I have to bowl more tomorrow," Clark said.

Clark had said on Friday that if there was no considerable improvement from the injury he does not believe he will remain with the squad.

"I'm confident of getting through, but if I don't I think I'll be going home," Clark had said.

If he fails to recover fully before third Test starting October 29 in the capital and is sent home, he will become the third Australian player to do so.

Opening batsman Phil Jaques and leg-spinner Bryce McGain have already returned home owing to different injuries.

Coach Tim Nielsen was also unsure if Clark would be available for the third Test.

"The real test will be when he tries to bowl flat out or bowls two spells, when he fronts up two days in a row," he said.

[DavidH]

We don't hear so much about Troy Cooley any more.

[PlanetPakistan]

They should send S Tait to India.

[sachinfan]

Originally Posted by PlanetPakistan They should send S Tait to India.

yes that should be a great challenge for india