Today at the Champions Trophy: Michael Clarke weighs up return for must-win Champions tie
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.AUSTRALIA V SRI LANKA
Australia's captain, Michael Clarke, is still unsure whether he will be fit to face Sri Lanka at The Oval this afternoon, but remains confident he will be fit for the Ashes.
The batsman has yet to feature in the tournament as he struggles with a lower-back injury, casting doubt on his condition for the first Test against England, which takes place at Trent Bridge on 10 July.
"I don't know at this stage," Clarke said when asked about his prospects of playing in Nottingham. "I'll have to train today with the boys and see how I pull up tomorrow. But I'm hopeful, there's no doubt about that."
Australia must win heavily to have any chance of progression to the semi-finals this week, following defeat by England at Edgbaston nine days ago and their rain-affected match at The Oval against New Zealand last week.
The Sri Lanka captain, Tillakaratne Dilshan, feels his side can go all the way and win their first outright Champions Trophy.
"I think we are playing very good cricket," the batsman said. "If we click the way we want, we can beat any side in any conditions.
"We played the same team [in the] last couple of months. We beat Australia in Australia, we played very good cricket here last year."
Two to watch
James Faulkner, Australia
The 23-year-old shoulders big hopes for his country this summer and has already hit one half-century in the tournament, albeit in defeat against England. He also took two wickets in that match and, with doubts over Michael Clarke's involvement, could have a key role to play in London today.
Rangana Herath, Sri Lanka
The veteran bowler has three wickets in the tournament, including the scalps of Alastair Cook and Jonathan Trott, and his disciplined style works well in tandem with the speed of Lasith Malinga and Shaminda Eranga. Herath, 35, terrorised Australia last winter and he could do the same today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments