Hussey backs Clark for greater deeds

Michael Hussey has praised the good showing by Stuart Clark, the New South Wales fast bowler, in his debut Test series in South Africa and believes he is in for the long haul. As Australia prepare to take on Bangladesh for the first time on their home soil, Hussey has singled out Clark as a potent threat to the opposition.

"When Glenn [McGrath] made himself unavailable for the tour of South Africa, we definitely needed someone to come to the fore," Hussey told Sportal, an Australian website. "He got his opportunity after a long wait - really - to play Test cricket, and he grasped his opportunity with both hands by bowling absolutely beautifully on tour."

Clark was a revelation in Australia's recent 3-0 drubbing of South Africa, claiming 20 wickets at 15.85 in his first Test series after being called up as replacement to McGrath. Clark took advantage of bowler-friendly conditions to lead Australia in total wickets, strike-rate (35.4) and registered the best individual figures for his side - 5 for 55 in the first Test at Cape Town.

Hussey added that while Clark's Test debut was overdue, he made the most of his selection and should consider himself in the running for a place in this winter's Ashes series at home. Hussey said he expected Clark to be as effective as he was in South Africa even on the Bangladeshi wickets that traditionally offer little asstance to fast bowlers. "I hope this is the start of a long career for him," he said. "He's a fine bowler and a good bloke to have around the team," he said.

The first Test begins tomorrow at Fatullah.