AUSTRALIA coach Mickey Arthur has hailed Michael Clarke’s leadership after the captain’s bold declaration paved the way for his side’s three-wicket win in the first Test against West Indies. Clarke declared with his team trailing by 43 runs at the Kensington Oval, before they clinched a remarkable comeback success to go 1-0 up in the three-Test series. According to statisticians in Australia it was the first time the national team – with all 11 players available to bat – had declared while trailing and won.
Arthur, who spoke to Clarke about a potential declaration, said the captain deserved recognition for the “brave” move, as he said: “I thought it was a great idea and I sort of just backed him on it. I think it was great. Michael needs to take all the plaudits for that because it was a brave decision that worked out for us.”
He added: “Tactically he is very, very good. He’s very, very positive, a very, very aggressive captain and that’s something I really enjoy and something I really like.
“He has the ability to always look for the win. The glass is always half full with Michael and that’s a great trait to have.”
West Indies were on top throughout the first three days of the Test, but Australia battled their way back into the match on day four.
Ryan Harris led a tail-end recovery with a career-best unbeaten 68, to set up Clarke’s declaration, before Ben Hilfenhaus immediately prised out the Windies’ top order with three wickets in six balls.
Arthur was delighted with his team’s belief and said they never turned their attention to trying to salvage a draw.
“The thing that impressed me about the whole Test match was we kept on talking about winning, and not about drawing the Test,” the South African said. “I think there’s a major difference in terms of mindset there. If you’re looking to save a Test match you become tentative.
“The messages in the dressing room were always that we were looking to win this Test match and I think Michael’s declaration was indicative of that.” (PA Sport)