Sachin Tendulkar's sign of greatness is his longevity: Michael Clarke

Clarke agreed that Australia's success in the Test series against India will depend largely on "how we play spin as well as how we bowl spin."

"They have Ashwin, Ojha, Jadeja and I know that Harbhajan is back in the side. They have a lot of talent. We have been tracking Ashwin closely as he has done well with both bat and ball."

The skipper also didn't agree that his spin trio of Nathan Lyon, Xavier Doherty and Glenn Maxwell are inferior than Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar of England.

"I am really excited that we have got spinners like Lyon, Doherty and Maxwell. They can certainly perform well in these conditions."

However he did agree that his team's strength is the pace department led by Peter Siddle.

"Definitely, our fast bowling stocks are very strong. Peter Siddle has shown how to transform talent into performance. Our fast bowlers have really shown lot of heart and character. They have a lot of respect for me and I have a lot of respect for them.

"I can throw the ball at them at any time and expect wickets. For me it doesn't matter, whether Matthew Wade bowls but all I need is 20 wickets. The Australian team comes above everything else."

For Clarke, his own performance is of little relevance as long as his team is able to win the series.

"As a leader, I expect to do well and lead by example. You want to perform and be at your best. But then, the team comes first. I am ready to settle for four ducks in four Tests if Australia happen to win the series."

More than quality of batsmanship, Clarke feels that Ricky Ponting and Michael Hussey's absence will be felt while trying to "mentor" the junior players.

... contd.

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