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Michael Clarke the Australia vice-captain, has joined Andrew Flintoff as a key injury concern ahead of the crucial fourth Test in Headingley from Friday. While Flintoff, who was named in England’s 14 man squad, is having his knee problem monitored daily, Clarke has begun regular treatment for a stomach strain picked up during his unbeaten 103 at Edgbaston on Monday.

Clarke’s century, his 12th in Tests, ensured Australia left Birmingham with a draw and kept them within one match of levelling the five-game series. He will not train at Headingley on Wednesday and pulled out of a promotional appearance in Leeds on Tuesday night.

Alex Kountouris, the Australian physiotherapist, said Clarke felt the injury after the game finished. “He will continue to be treated with a view to him being fit for the fourth Test,” he said.

Australia are also waiting to see whether Brad Haddin’s broken finger improves enough for him to regain his spot. Graham Manou stepped in at the last minute and put in a strong performance behind the stumps after Haddin was hurt in the warm-up shortly before the match.

Haddin was able to put his glove on the injured hand on Monday, but previously had struggled to hold a bat. He will visit a specialist in Leeds on Wednesday. Brett Lee, who hopes to bowl at full pace throughout this week, is another Australian on the comeback trail following a rib injury picked up before the series started.
Source:Cricket News

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