Lehmann confirms Clarke's return for match against Bangladesh

Sydney, Feb 18 (IANS) Australian coach Darren Lehmann has confirmed injured skipper Michael Clarke will make his comeback to the team Saturday in their World Cup encounter against Bangladesh in Brisbane, Gabba.

Clarke who had a right hamstring surgery less than eight weeks ago was set the dateline of Feb 21 by Cricket Australia to make a comeback if he was to take any part in the World Cup. A determined Clarke went under rigorous training and recovery process to be fit in time.

In an exchange broadcast on Sky Sports News Wednesday, Lehmann said: "Yeah, he's (Clarke) playing, mate."

Clarke will supposedly replace stand-in captain George Bailey, who led Australia to a big opening victory against England in Melbourne last week.

Earlier Australian spearhead Mitchell Johnson had stated his views on the 33-year-old's return.

"I love the captaincy that he (Clarke) brings, he has got so much experience and George does as well. But Michael Clarke has been the captain for a number of years now. I know he has the boys' full support," Johnson had said.