Lehmann confirmed Clarke would not play against England on Saturday.
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Australia coach Darren Lehmann has ruled skipper Michael Clarke out of his side’s crunch opening World Cup clash against England on Saturday.
Clarke starred in Australia’s 188-run over the UAE on Wednesday, notching up a score of 64 with the bat.
However Lehmann confirmed Clarke would play no role in the tournament opener against England despite the 33-year-old reportedly pulling up well following the game.
Clarke is expected to play in Australia’s second pool game against Bangladesh on February 21.
“He’s pulled up really well and he’s not playing Saturday,” Lehmann is quoted as saying by the ABC.
“We’re really happy with his progress. We’re going to stick with the plan and he’s going to play against Bangladesh.
“He’s very keen to play (against England).
“We had a chat. We’re making sure he’s 100 per cent ready to go for Bangladesh.
“We’re really comfortable with the decision.”
Australia face England at the MCG on Saturday at 3.30am (GMT).
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