Published: Jun 25, 2013, 10:56 AM (IST)
Edited: Jun 25, 2013, 10:56 AM (IST)
Mickey Arthur (left) and Michael Clarke © Getty Images
Sydney: Jun 25, 2013
Australia captain Michael Clarke on Tuesday said he ‘was not consulted but was told’ about South African Mickey Arthur’s sacking as the head coach of the national side.
Arthur has been replaced by former Australian cricketer Darren Lehmann.
Clarke was quoted as saying by the Cricket Australia (CA) website: “I think this is a decision made by Cricket Australia. It’s had nothing to do with the players, it’s had nothing to do with me personally.”
“Cricket Australia have made this call and for us as a playing group, and now Darren, it’s really important that we look forward to what we have ahead of us and make sure we’re focused on having success on this tour,” he said.
Following Arthur’s sacking as the head coach, Clarke has stepped down as a selector and will now focus only on the performance of his side.
Lehmann, who will be Australia’s coach till 2015 ICC World Cup, believes Australia can win the Ashes.
“Definitely [can still win the Ashes]. It’s a challenge for all the playing group and everyone involved in Cricket Australia. The team is going to play a certain way,” Lehmann said.
