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Melbourne: Australia's injury crisis could yet have ramifications for the first Test against West Indies at the Gabba with Michael Clarke in doubt, according to Australia's physio Alex Kountouris. Peter Siddle has already declared that he will be ready for the Test, although Ricky Ponting is concerned over the fitness of his fast-bowling brigade in general.
Clarke will be one of the most closely watched players in the lead-up to the Test, which begins on November 26, as he continues to deal with back soreness that ruled him out of the tour of India. He has a history of back problems but Kountouris said this particular injury was slightly different.
"He gets back soreness that usually only takes him two or three days to get over," Kountouris told the Age. "That is what has made this one unusual. It didn't come right so quickly. He's not doing anything too elaborate right now. He's running again, which is a good sign. He still has 20 or so days before the Test but I can't say anything is certain."
The Australians are hoping Clarke is fit to turn out for New South Wales before the first Test, although his opportunities are limited and he hasn't had a net session since September.
Brad Haddin has made his return to first-class cricket this week, following surgery on a broken finger, and should be a certain starter for the Test series.
Brett Lee was sent home from India with an elbow problem and is expected to be bowling again soon, perhaps next week, while Siddle's side stiffness raised questions about his short-term future.
