Published: Mar 29, 2015, 06:46 PM (IST)
Edited: Mar 29, 2015, 06:46 PM (IST)
Melbourne: Outgoing Australia One-Day International (ODI) captain praised the bowlers after Australia’s fifth World Cup triumph at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 after beating New Zealand in the final by seven wickets. He he had good things to say about the joint-leading wicket-taker Mitchell Starc as well. “He [Starc] deserves man of the series. He has been exceptional. Our bowlers have won us the world cup” Full updates: Australia vs New Zealand ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Final
Clarke top scored for Australia with 74 in his final game for Australia in the shorter format. “I said it was the right time [to retire]. There is no such thing as fairy tales in sport but that cones close for me. Mentally we were ready for the final. Whole squad deserves credit Once we bowled NZ out, our 6-7 batsmen went to the nets to get a hit.” FULL SCORECARD: Australia vs New Zealand ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Final at MCG
The skipper expressed his delight on the support his team got throughout the tournament. “We took lap of honour to thank our fans. The support has played a big part in our success. We’ll stay in there and spend time together today,” he added. ICC Cricket World Cup 2015: New Zealand marks out of 10
Clarke also said that he was thankful to the reception he got after he was dismissed. “It’s been really special. Even announcing my retirement, didn’t want to take anything from team. The way the crowd hung around to see us raise the trophy was special for all of us.” ICC Cricket World Cup 2015: Australia marks out of 10
Clarke was quizzed about the black armband that he and his entire team had worn during the match. “This victory is special. Hughesy is spoken about on a daily basis. Last couple of months have been harder than when he had passed away. Been in touch with his sister and family. Knew they were watching. Will wear the black arm band for the rest of my career,” Clarke said. AUS vs NZ, ICC World Cup 2015 Final: Australia innings highlights
However, Clarke doesn’t think that this win is the proudest moment in his career: I think my proudest achievement was getting the hundred at the Adelaide Oval.Tthat is the most special day in my life. This is a magnificent feeling because the team has been through so much” Australia vs New Zealand, ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Final: NZ innings highlights
“I dont think I can leave on a better note. No fairytales in sport but this is as close as it gets Having the chance to captain Australia is something I will cherish. This game has been so good to me. My goal is definitely try to get Australia back to No 1 in Test cricket. For now, I want to enjoy this moment. Hopefully, walking away from ODIs can prolong my Test career,” Clarke concluded. Brendon McCullum should have played a bigger role in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 Final
