Michael Clarke drafted into Australia squad for VB Series match against England

New South Wales batsman Michael Clarke will replace Darren Lehmann in the Australian squad for the VB Series match against England in Adelaide on Sunday (19 January 2003), it was announced today.

Clarke, 21, will link up with the squad on Saturday evening after flying from Coffs Harbour where he was due to take part in an ING Cup match against Western Australia on Sunday.

He replaces Lehmann who has been suspended from five one-day internationals after being found guilty of a breach of the International Cricket Council's Code of Conduct.

The former Australia under-19 captain will be the 149th player to represent Australia at one-day international level and will wear the number 49.

The issue of whether he will remain with the squad beyond the VB Series match in Adelaide will be assessed after the game on Sunday.

Commenting on Michael Clarke's call-up, Chairman of the National Selection Panel Trevor Hohns said: "This is a reward for Michael, who has performed well for Australia A this season.

"We have had our eye on him all summer and this match will be a good opportunity to see how he performs in top-class company at the highest level."

Michael Clarke said: "I still don't think it's sunk in, but obviously I'm delighted.

"It just shows dreams are possible because I've been playing cricket all my life just for the moment to play for my country.

"I spoke to my family after receiving the call from Australian team manager Steve Bernard and Dad was thrilled but I didn't talk to my Mum, I think she was crying.

"I'm just looking forward to getting to Adelaide, meeting the guys and settling in with the team.

"It's been a hectic day for me, flying from Sydney to Coffs Harbour and I was on the bus on the way to training when the call came. From there it was straight back to the hotel and straight to the airport again.

"As I've said, it just hasn't sunk in yet."

Clarke's New South Wales team-mate Michael Bevan will be Australian vice-captain for Sunday's match with Australia led by Adam Gilchrist in place of Ricky Ponting, who is resting.

Commenting on Bevan's elevation, Hohns added: "Michael is a very experienced player, probably the most senior player in the squad at the moment, and as such it is entirely appropriate he assumes a position of responsibility."

Sunday's match at the Adelaide Oval is a sell-out starting at 1345, but those people not able to watch the match at the ground can stay in touch with live coverage on the Nine Network, ABC Radio and at www.baggygreen.com.au the home of Australian cricket on the internet.