Rahul Dravid questions Michael Clarke's inclusion in Australia's World Cup team

Michael Clarke

Sydney, Jan 23 (IANS) Former India captain Rahul Dravid has described the decision to include injured captain Michael Clarke in the 15-member squad for the World Cup as "un-Australian".

Dravid also said that without Clarke the Australian team would not face too much of a difficulty in the upcoming quadrennial tournament as in-form batsman Steven Smith would seamlessly fill in the void.

"You just felt they had to take this decision. It's almost a very un-Australian decision," Dravid was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo on Friday.

"Without him, (Clarke) being in the squad and you just bring Steven Smith into it, they don't look a weaker side at all."

Dravid hoped that the co-hosts haven't taken an emotional decision, a trait particularly unheard of in Australian cricket. Clarke has been dogged by persistent problems on his back and hamstring that forced him to partially miss the recent home Test series against India.

"In fact, some people might argue they actually look a better side. I just hope it is not an emotional decision," added the 42-year-old batting legend.

The Australian captain had tweeted a few days ago on how he is working overtime in order to get fit for the mega-event.

While you sleep, I train. While you eat, I train. While you party, I train. February 21 is my goal! http://t.co/aQwZga2be7

— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) January 11, 2015