We’re favourites to win: Clarke
Michael Clarke, who is yet to lose a series as Australian skipper, said on Saturday that his team was the favourite to win the tri-series involving India and Sri Lanka beginning here at the MCG on Sunday.
"We're the No 1 one-day team in the world, so I'd like to think that we're the favourites. But while saying that, we have to play at our best to beat both these teams. They were both in the final of the most recent World Cup. We know the conditions very well in Australia and I'm confident if we play our best cricket we can win this series,” Clarke told reporters.
Matthew Wade has impressed the selectors with fine performances in front and behind the wickets in the first two T20s against India. Clarke said the door has not entirely closed on the struggling Brad Haddin, who was omitted from the squad for the first three one-dayers. “The team has been picked for the first three games," Clarke said. "I think the selectors will talk throughout these first three games before they select the team for the next group of matches.
Haddin just needs to get back to scoring ways and keeping well, continue to play the way he plays. I don't think Brad's that bothered about it. He knows what he has to do, and I'm sure he'll get another opportunity,” Clarke said.
The New South Welshman also offered his support to Shaun Marsh, severely short of runs recently. “Shaun is a fantastic talent, just that he’s going through a bit of slump. He has gone back to Shield cricket, and I am sure he has a bright future for Australia,” Clarke said.
However, Clarke said selection issues should not waver the players’ concentration. "The guys that have been picked have either performed for their state or for Australia. In the back of your mind, you do need to continue to look forward, but it's important especially against these two teams that we play our best cricket and concentrate,” he added.
