Australia skipper Michael Clarke out cheaply in final Ashes test at The Oval
Captain, who faced 29 balls in 42 minutes, is caught behind by England wicket-keeper Jos Buttler off a rising delivery from pace bowling all-rounder Ben Stokes
Michael Clarke was out for just 15 against England on the first day of the fifth Ashes test at The Oval yesterday in what was set to be the Australia captain’s penultimate innings in international cricket.
Clarke, one of the best batsmen of his generation but in the middle of a prolonged dip in form, fell when he was caught behind by wicket-keeper Jos Buttler off a rising delivery from pace bowling all-rounder Ben Stokes that cut away off the seam.
Kumar Dharmasena gave Clarke out but, after consulting vice-captain and non-striker Steven Smith, the batsman reviewed the Sri Lankan umpire’s decision.
But Indian replay official S Ravi upheld Dharmasena’s decision after technology indicated a thin nick and Australia were 186 for three.
Clarke faced 29 balls in 42 minutes yesterday, driving off-spinner Moeen Ali down the ground for the only four of his innings.
Prior to this match, Clarke announced he would be retiring from international duty after the end of the fifth test.
