Michael Clarke’s teammates say they’ll need to flick a switch and forget about their injured skipper if he’s ruled out of Australia’s Champions Trophy opener against England on Saturday.
At the moment the Australians are remaining upbeat about Clarke’s chances of recovering in time from the latest flare-up in his troublesome back.
They realise the importance of making an early statement against England with a full-strength side and are being driven by the hope Clarke will lead them.
But should Clarke be ruled out, which appears increasingly likely, Australian fast bowler Clint McKay says the squad must immediately block the disappointment out and, in their minds at least, leave their captain behind.
“You move on. Yeah he’s our captain and he’s the best batter that we’ve got,” McKay told AAP.
“But that’s life. If he’s not right to play we need to move on and find a way to win without him.”
Clarke is still in London receiving specialist treatment and it’s still not clear yet when he will rejoin the team in Birmingham.
The camp is hoping he will be back by Friday, but even then he would be at long odds to be rushed back with the all-important five-Test Ashes series still ahead of him.
Without Clarke, Australia’s batting line-up were skittled for 65 in their crushing warm-up loss to India in Cardiff.
But McKay says Australia can win without their leader and focus will be the key if they’re to tackle England minus their star player.
“We’ve done it before and I’m sure we’ll do it again,” McKay said.
“He’s our captain and he’s our best player.
“We’d like to have him in the side and I know he’s doing everything he can do to make sure he’s right to go.
“So fingers crossed it all goes well and we’re walking out with our best team on Saturday.”
McKay said Clarke’s injury drama hadn’t soured the mood in the camp as Australia look to defend their Champions Trophy crown in what is the last running of the one-day tournament.
“The mood is fantastic around the group,” he said.
“We are leading into a major world competition, and we’re the reigning champions of that and we’re here to win.
“I don’t think the mood could be any better. Obviously it’s a bit disappointing where Michael is at the moment but there’s still a few days left and we’re still very confident he’s going to play.”