Never mind the Champions Trophy, Australia’s Ashes campaign could rest in English hands treating injured captain Michael Clarke.

Clarke travelled to London for specialist treatment for his ongoing back problems as his side crashed to a humiliating defeat in a warm-up game in Wales.

Without their captain, Australia were skittled for 65 in a 243-run loss to India in Cardiff – the total five runs fewer than Australia’s one-day international record-low total, 70.

But the main concern was for captain Clarke, whose dodgy back could derail Australia’s Ashes campaign next month.

Clarke was sent to London for more treatment on an injury which flared up before the final Test of Australia’s 4-0 series loss in India two months ago.

He hasn’t played in any Champions Trophy warm-up games, including Tuesday’s crushing loss to India.

Australia’s tournament starts on Saturday against England with stand-in skipper George Bailey hoping Clarke will play.

“It would be a huge blow if he is not available,” Bailey said.

“He is our best batsman and our captain and he is someone we need in the side and look forward to having in the side.”

Bailey downplayed Clarke’s absence as precautionary, but the star batsman wanted to play against the Indians.

“He has had some stiffness there in the last couple of days and, with such an important tournament coming up, we did not see fit to risk him in these games,” Bailey said.

“And it’s a reasonably big summer after this tournament as well so it is a case of managing him almost on a day-to-day basis.

“The plan is for him to play Saturday. That is what we are working towards.”

Australia’s warm-up for their trophy defence was dented by India, who recovered from 5-55 when batting first to post 6-308.

Australia’s run chase was a calamity as Umesh Yadav took the first five wickets to fall in a stunning return of 5-18 in just five overs.

Only two Australian batsmen – Adam Voges (23) and Phil Hughes (14) – reached double figures and the innings lasted just 24 overs.

“I’m not sure how we’ll react to it,” said Bailey.

“It was certainly not the way we wanted to play. But if you are going to have a game like that, you may as well have it in a practice game.”