Michael Clarke says it’s out of his hands who leads Australia’s Test side on Friday if he’s ruled out with a back injury.

Captain/selector Clarke on Thursday echoed the comments of coach/selector Mickey Arthur by refusing to unconditionally guarantee vice-captain Shane Watson would be skipper if Clarke doesn’t play in the fourth Test against India in Delhi.

“I haven’t spoken to anyone with regards to that,” Clarke said on Thursday.

“I have no say. If I am unavailable to captain this game, that’s up to the other selectors and the (Cricket Australia) Board.

“I am sure they are in planning if I am not fit for this game to work out who the captain is.”

Clarke was unable to train at Delhi’s Feroz Shah Kolta Stadium on Wednesday, where Arthur was seen having a long conversation with Watson.

“I’ve said Shane has my full support as vice-captain of the team,” Clarke said.

“If he’s appointed captain, he has my full support.”

Watson was banned from the third Test in Mohali by Arthur, Clarke and team manager Gavin Dovey for failing to complete a homework assignment on time.

Clarke says Watson was only given permission to travel home to Sydney last week for the birth of his first child because he had been suspended.

A furious Watson vented his anger over his ban, saying it was harsh and adding he was considering his playing future. However Watson says he’s now fully committed to the team after an emotional week.

AAP gab/gc/