Chennai: Though he may not be in the best of form but his opponents know the kind of impact Sachin Tendulkar has on his team. So when Australian skipper Michael Clarke was asked about his opinion on Sachin Tendulkar, Clarke simply said that his form will decide India’s chances in the series.
"Sachin got a hundred most recently. So, I think he is in really good form. He gives much more than stability and his form will surely decide whether India wins this series or not."
Clarke also disagreed with the view that his side would struggle in the absence of Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey who announced their retirement recently.
"No doubt, it's a challenge but I don't think it's a problem. It's an opportunity for a couple of senior members of the team to stand up. Our boys have been training as hard as possibly they can. That is my main focus to make sure for us to be well prepared as we can be. I am hundred per cent fit and looking forward to the series, scoring runs and leading from the front.
On the lessons learnt and positives got by his side from the two practice matches, Clarke said, "The real positives are playing in these conditions. Our guys have had some cricket under their belts ahead of the first Test is real positive and adding to our strength is the Warner’s recovery which is very important for us. Apart from Warner getting fit, Shane Watson had played very well in both the innings in the three day practice game which ensures his come back into the side," said Clarke
Clarke occasionally bowls left-arm spin and he said he would have to do it in India if the need arises. "Getting big runs is my main concern and if I get a chance to bowl I will surely look forward to it.”
He also said that his side would play their brand of cricket and not what England had done recently. "I do not think anybody is invincible. It's always tough to beat an opposition in their backyard. I think England played very well. But that will have no bearing on us and we will try and play the Australian way," Clarke said.
"Australian strength now for a while has been fast bowling. We will assess conditions before selecting our squad for the first Test," he added
