Michael Clarke Ruled Out Of Champions Trophy

Michael Clarke Ruled Out Of Champions Trophy

Michael Clarke (right) will play no part in Australia's Champions Trophy campaign.

©Action Images / Matthew Childs

Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke has returned to Australia after being ruled out of playing in the ICC Champions Trophy with a back injury.

Clarke missed Australia's opening two matches, a 50-run win over the West Indies and a no result with India but Cricket Australia (CA) confirmed that he would not be playing any part at all in the tournament.

“Michael has had lower back pain since the latter part of the one-day series in England," CA physio Alex Kountouris said in a statement.

“On arriving in South Africa the pain has intensified and he has not been able to participate in any of the team’s training sessions.

“He has received intensive treatment but it is apparent that he will not be able to take any part in the remainder of this series.

“As such Michael will return home to continue his treatment and return to playing as soon as possible.”

CA have not yet named a replacement player and the reigning champions take on Pakistan in their final group match on Wednesday 30th September.

Few teams have not been hit by injuries throughout the tournament and Daryl Tuffey has become the latest casualty, the New Zealand fast bowler breaking a hand ahead of their match against England.

© Cricket World 2009

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