CJ Clarke appointed West Indies team physio

West Indies have roped in the services of Australian Christopher 'CJ' Clarke as their new physiotherapist / trainer, starting with the team's current tour of South Africa. Clarke, who recently worked with the Sri Lankan team, will now work alongside fitness specialist Jacqui King-Mowatt.

"We welcome CJ to the team and the players are looking forward to working with him," team manager Clive Lloyd told CMC. "He brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the job."

Clarke had a successful stint with Sri Lanka, during Tom Moody's tenure as coach and for a brief while after Moody quit the post. He was also involved in the recently-concluded Indian Cricket League (ICL), getting the players in shape during the preparatory camps.

He was credited with helping Sri Lankan fast bowler Lasith Malinga regain his fitness during the Super Eights stage of the World Cup in the Caribbean after damaging left ankle ligaments. Malinga was Sri Lanka's premier strike bowler during the tournament and his contribution helped them reach the finals.

Clarke would be looking to repeat that with West Indies captain Chris Gayle, whose availability for the first Test at Port Elizabeth is in serious doubt after suffering a hamstring injury on the tour of Zimbabwe recently. He said he was looking forward to his new stint with an international side.

"I have watched the West Indies players for many years, and I'm quite impressed with their athleticism and skill," Clarke said. "It is an honour to work with West Indies cricket."