Michael Clarke has shrugged off a back injury to post Australia’s third individual century of the first Test’s opening innings on day two against India at the Adelaide Oval.
Despite being heavily restricted in his movements due to a back injury sustained on Tuesday, the Australian captain paired with Steve Smith to produce a 119-run partnership and carry the hosts to a total of 6 for 473 before rain interrupted play.
“He (Clarke) was quite ginger this morning but he is very determined to bat,” Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris told ABC Grandstand before the captain strolled out to the crease with Smith for the first bowl of day two.
The 33-year-old improved on his 60 not out from the day before, increasing his total to 98 before rain delayed the match for almost two hours. He later snuck in the required runs before more bad weather hit, reaching the century mark from just 127 deliveries and quietly celebrating the achievement by kissing his helmet.
The 25-year-old Smith also recorded his fifth Test century, pouring in 142 (204) after the Aussies lost Mitch Marsh (41), Nathan Lyon (3) and Brad Haddin (0) to close day one.
Photo: Saeed Khan/Getty Images.
