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ByKylie Stevens
JUST five weeks ago, NSW batsman, cricketer Michael Clarke, of Chipping Norton, told the Champion of his dream of playing for Australia. Today, he he is one of Australia's rising stars. Last Saturday night an unexpected call led to his one-day debut for Australia, replacing the suspended Darren Lehmann. Despite the big shoes he had to fill, thew 21-year-old former Westfields Sports High School student passed with flying colours as he helped guide Australia to victory against England at the Adelaide Oval. It was a debut he'll never forget. This slow orthodox bowler snared his forst international wicket of Ronnie Irani before displaying his fielding brilliance with the runout of Matthew Hoggard. He then starred with the bat, getting Australia out of trouble - at one stage very shakey at 6/104 chasing 153. But Clarke came to the rescue, building a partnership with Shane Watson and hitting the winning run to be 39no. Clarke presented sports awards at Canley Vale High School last month when he told the Champion of his time at Westfields and his ambitions in cricket. "I had a great time at Westfields but spent |
more time on sport than my studies," said Clarke. "I just hope to play well for NSW and help them get in the final in both the ING and Puma Milk Cups." "It's my dream to play for Australia but it's hard to make the side the way they're playing now." They were famous last words for Clarke and, with Lehmann out for another four matches, he may have the chance to star once again in the VB final series against the Poms.  NSW & Australian Batsman  Wed. 22nd Jan. 2003 |
