Michael Clarke is still hopeful of Shane Watson returning to India for the fourth Test in Delhi, despite the vice-captain’s indications that he is considering his future in Tests. Among others, he addressed a barrage of questions from the media on the Aussie team management suspending players during the pre-match Press meet on Wednesday.
On the possibility of Watson returning for Delhi Test
I think Watto has made it clear to everybody that that’s something he’s thinking about while he’s at home. From my point of view he’s vice-captain of this team and he’s a big part of this team, there’s no doubt about that. From the conversation Watto and I have had, 100% he has gone home for the birth of his first child, which is very exciting for him. I know he’s really excited about that.
Hopefully all goes to plan there, lee has the baby in the next few days and Watto is back here playing the fourth Test as our vice-captain. That’s the best-case scenario from my point of view and from the team’s point of view. The rest is really up to Shane.
On Pat Howard’s comment on Watson
I’m not going to get into that. I don’t think it’s fair to Watto and I don’t think it’s fair to Pat that I get involved in that. Watto has been around for a long time. Pat has been around sport for a very long time. I know those two will be in communication. For me the focus is this team and trying to have success in these two Test matches.
On whether he would consider taking Pattinson back for Mohali Test after his apology
The most important thing is that this group looks forward. The decision has been made. The players have accepted and respected the decision that has been made, and now we’re trying to do what the most important thing is and have success in this Test match. I think it would be very stupid of me to look backwards. I don’t think right now, a day out before the Test, I can afford to do that.
On Mohali pitch
I saw the wicket yesterday, have not seen it today, though it should not change much. There is not much grass to cut off and conditions going to be pretty similar to the ones in the last two matches. I have played cricket here in Mohali. Generally there is a bit of grass on the pitch, which is nice for fast bowlers but I am not surprised that all the grass has been cut off and that’s part of international cricket.
Compiled by Amit Chaudhary