We have always put the team first: Clarke

Jan 06, 2012 |

IANS

Sydney

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Australian captain Michael Clarke said on Friday that the philosophy of always putting the team first was key in the innings and 68 runs win over India in the second Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) here on Friday.

"We have always put the team first. I never thought about any milestone while declaring the innings yesterday. The only thing that I had in my mind was that India have a great batting line-up and we needed time to bowl them out," said the local boy, who was the Man of the Match with an unbeaten 329 at his home ground that was hosting its 100th Test.

Australia declared their first innings at 659 for four after a landmark triple century by Clarke. India made 191 in the first innings and were bowled out for 400 in their second shortly after tea on the fourth day of the second cricket Test.

Clarke praised his bowlers for the memorable win that gave Australia an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

"It was a tough wicket to take 10 wickets but our bowlers were brilliant. I've spoken about consistency and our guys are doing that now. In any team you need experience and youth and I think now this Australian team has it," he said.

The 30-year-old was also relieved after his predecessor Ricky Ponting ended his two-year century draught with a crucial 134.

"I was as relieved as Punt (Ponting). His attitude around the group has been exceptional," he said.

Clarke also cherished the crucial wicket of Sachin Tendulkar with his part-time left-arm spin.

"It (Sachin's wicket) is a very handy one to have," Clarke said, adding that Australia are contemplating unleashing a four-man pace attack on India in the third Test at the bouncy WACA in Perth.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said that his boys are capable of beating Australia in Perth.

"We were down in the first session on the first day. A few batsmen got out to good deliveries. It was very difficult to contain Clarke. We can beat this team in Perth," said Dhoni.

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