Born in 1981 (April 2nd) Michael Clarke is a relative youngster and newcomer in the Australian squad making his Test match debut away to India in 2004 at the Chinnaswamy Stadium.

 

Scoring 151 in the first innings and 17 in the second, he helped Australia to a 217 run victory winning the man of the match award with a confident and scintillating performance.

 

Clarke was highly tipped to gain his place against England in the 2002 - 3 ashes but despite a terrific domestic season, the Australian selectors made him wait. Clarke's second century came at home (Adelaide Oval) against New Zealand in his sixth Test scoring 141 before he was bowled by Vettori.

 

In the fourth Test against India at the Wankhede Stadium, Clarke took his first five wicket haul in a little over six overs. He took 6 for 9 but despite this amazing return Australia lost the Test match by 13 runs. it remains his best return in Test cricket.

 

Made his one-day international debut in place of the suspended Darren Lehmann against England at Adelaide in January 2003: scored 39 not out, took a wicket with his left-arm spin and claimed a run-out.

 

Test cap No. 389 | One Day cap No. 149