Not under pressure to perform, says Clarke

VISAKHAPATNAM - Australia’s stand-in cricket captain Michael Clarke Tuesday said he was under no pressure after a poor performance in the two-match Test series.

Clarke, who scored just 35 runs in the two Tests, said he deserves the criticism for his poor performance in the Test series and now is looking forward to perform and bring his team back to winning ways.

“I deserved the criticism as my performance in the Test series wasn’t good enough. So I am very disappointed about that,” he said on the eve of the second One-day international against India here.

Clarke, however, added that he was training hard and was not under any pressure.

“I am not at all under pressure. I’m training very hard as possibly as I can. I’m really excited about these two one-day games. My main priority is to win the two ODIs. We are really excited about the bright weather, hope it continues tomorrow,” he said.

Clarke said that the team management is yet to take a decision on injured pacer Doug Bollinger. The fast bowler missed the second Test in Bangalore because of an abdominal strain.

“He is going well, though he has not done enough bowling. It’s an important day for him today, he will have to bowl at the nets. Physio is happy with his improvement. But we need to make sure he bowls 10 overs for us tomorrow, otherwise I don’t think it’s worth a risk,” he said.

Clarke said both the teams did not get to bat or bowl, in the washed out match in Kochi, so it could not be an disadvantage for both the teams.

“We have no excuse, we have one day to get ready and give our best tomorrow. It’s about getting what you can do today. It’s a huge one-day series, there are a lot of new guys. It’s going to be fantastic experience. It will be tough. India have got a young squad but there is a lot of talent out there,” Clarke said.

“I enjoy coming to India. It’s a wonderful place to come here. Apart from the Test series result, we had a really good time. I’m looking forward to the match. Fans love seeing competitive cricket and we Australians bring that.”