Michael Clarke set for coaching role with Prime Minister's XI

Former Australia skipper Michael Clarke has been named as the coach of the Prime Minister’s XI that will play the practice match against Sri Lanka prior to the latter’s tour comprising of T20 internationals against Australia succeeding the series. The whole exercise of the Prime Minister’s XI is currently being viewed as one of those developmental activities that will serve Australia cricket for a long time.

While many of Clarke’s former teammates have indeed taken the leap into coaching such as Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer, the 35-year old now seems set on a role with the developmental squad, something that would allow him to implement his coaching philosophies on the side and get an early feedback on the manner in which the players and other staff responds to his methods as well.

Speaking a few short minutes following his appointment, Clarke went on to say a few words on the squad that has been named. He also went on to speak on Adam Voges, who was his teammate in the Australian side at one point in time. Voges himself would be looking for a way back into the side after a string of low scores that eventually saw him get the drop in favor of the younger players.

“The squad has a really good mix of experienced players and some exciting young talent,” Clarke said. “I played with and against quite a few players in the team during my career, including captain Adam Voges, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work alongside him.

Clarke concluded that the venue – Manuka Oval in Canberra was a perfect place which would certainly attract a lot of fans on the day. However, the fact of the matter is that they will be competitive against the Lankans on the day for sure.

“Most importantly, this is a great opportunity for all the players in the side to perform against a strong international team. I think we’ll be really competitive against Sri Lanka, and I know we can play an exciting brand of cricket in front of what will hopefully be a big crowd in Canberra.”

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