The debutant admitted to pre-match nerves, but delivered a classy performance on one of Australian sport’s grandest stages.

It wasn’t Joe Burns batting at No.6, rather hamstrung captain Michael Clarke who the Nine Network engaged to call the third Test between Australia and India.

Clarke remains desperate to lead Australia during next year’s World Cup.

“I saw the Australian team medical staff … last night and this morning. A lot of hard work now with my rehab, but a week-and-a-half post-surgery and they’re as happy as they can possibly be,” he said.

But post-career planning would be in full swing after the 33-year-old’s recurring back and hamstring woes flared up during the first Test.

“There’s a chance I may never play again,” Clarke said after Australia’s emotional win at Adelaide Oval.

Based on his Boxing Day debut, Clarke’s future could well be in the commentary box.

Clarke was candid and colourful, offering a unique insight into teammates and the opposition.

There was the odd piece of cheerleading, but Clarke was more opinionated analyst than promotional tool.

“That’s the length we’ve been talking about all day,” Clarke said, as India’s quicks started to swing momentum their way during the second session.

“The benefit of the doubt has probably gone against him there … it’s a tough call,” he noted when Shane Watson was judged lbw.

Clarke shed light on James Pattinson’s fashion sense and Steve Smith’s messiness in the dressing rooms.

But he also tackled more serious matters – waxing lyrical about India’s field placements as they tried to pick apart Rogers’ game.

Clarke also lamented the simplicity of cricket statistics.

“I don’t think they give you an exact example of who you’re playing against, the conditions … the situation of the game,” Clarke said.

“There’s a lot more that goes into it – especially with senior players. Look at Shane Watson, Chris Rogers and Brad Haddin.

“They give so much more than the statistics.”