Clarke calls on ‘struggling’ Ponting, Haddin to lift their games

Michael Clarke has refused to give struggling Ponting, Johnson and Haddin his unconditional backing.

Sydney: Australian captain Michael Clarke has refused to give struggling veterans Ricky Ponting, Mitchell Johnson and Brad Haddin his unconditional backing for selection in the upcoming series against New Zealand and India.

“I’d like to see them continue playing well, as they did the other day. Like anybody, we’re judged on performance. They’re experienced players and bring a lot to our team, but they will be judged on making runs and taking wickets and for Hads keeping wickets,” the Daily Telegraph quoted Clarke, as saying. “I’ll continue to support anyone in my team. I think we’re got a really good mix at the moment of youth and experience,” he added. Since the Ashes last December, Ponting has averaged just 14.15 from 13 innings. However, the 37-year-old’s gritty knock in Australia’s record-breaking chase in the second Test against South Africa in Johannesburg has proved that he deserves a spot in the squad. On the other hand, Haddin faces a nervous few days following an unconvincing series in South Africa. The wicketkeeper had entered Australia’s second innings in Johannesburg with just 147 from his past 10 knocks. ANI