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Clarke given leave from WI tour; Hodge called up
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May 9, 2008, 11:12

Michael Clarke has been granted compassionate leave from the early part of Australia’s tour of the West Indies for family reasons. Brad Hodge (pictured) will cover for him.

Vice-captain Clarke will not depart with his Australia team-mates on Saturday as he will remain in Sydney for private family reasons. Clarke’s arrival date in the West Indies is currently unclear. Michael Hussey will assume the role of vice-captain until Clarke arrives. 

“Despite the circumstances it is a huge honour to be given the role of vice captain, even if it may only be for a short period of time,” Hussey said.

Cricket Australia’s National Selection Panel (NSP) announced Victorian batsman Hodge will act as a shadow player for Clarke.

Hodge, currently in India playing in the Indian Premier League, was supposed to link up at Lancashire once his commitments in India were complete. This now depends on the length of Clarke’s absence.

“Brad has had another strong domestic season with the Victorian Bushrangers in all forms of the game,” head selector Andrew Hilditch said.

“He is still very highly regarded by the National Selection Panel and this provides him with another opportunity to be involved with the Australian squad.”

Although details are yet to be finalised, it is anticipated Hodge will join his Australian team-mates in either Dubai or London as they travel to the West Indies.