You can't put a price on 'Pup'

"While a cricketer's value can be determined by a salivating squillionaire, a man's worth can only be determined by his actions," says Andrew Webster in the Sydney Morning Herald while reflecting on Michael's Clarke decision to ignore the Indian Premier League. Webster got hold of a copy of the letter Clarke sent to Lalit Modi, the IPL chairman and commissioner.

"With no disrespect to the IPL, I feel my body and mind needs a break and with the hectic international schedule over the next 18 months, I feel I need to freshen up and a break will do me good," Clarke wrote. "By trying to continue to advance my profile and reputation with the Australian team, I hope to one day become an asset to your tournament.