Best knocks of Michael Clarke in the Ashes

The fiercest rivalry in cricket’s history is witnessed when England face Australia in the Ashes. Warriors from both nations vie for national honour and pride as they bring their A game to the show. Players who have been able to conquer the Ashes have received widespread fame and have become legends for their countrymen.

One such man who has been a stand out performer for Australia has been Michael Clarke. Making his debut in the 2005 Ashes series, Clarke had a tough time in that series and was unable to perform at an optimum level, which led to his dropping from the Australian team.

But he did come back with a bang in the 2006 series and scored two hundreds, and ended up with 389 runs at a tremendous average of 77.80. His comeback exhibited his hunger to succeed for Australia at the highest level and laid the platform for him to become a future captain.

Clarke exhibited good technique in the seaming conditions of England, and as expected has been able to score freely in Australia as well. He has an enviable record in the Ashes, of having scored 1684 runs in 23 matches at an average of 48.11, with five centuries to his name.

Lets take a look at some of Michael Clarke’s best innings in the Ashes.

5. Ashes 2009, 3rd Test Match, Edgbaston, Birmingham

Michael Clarke (R) hits the ball at England fielder Alastair Cook (L) on the fifth day of the third Ashes cricket test

Having won the previous Test at Lord’s, the English were doing everything in their power to regain the Ashes. The previous series had been an absolute humiliation as Australia hammered them 5-0. Without the likes of McGrath, Warne and Gilchrist, it was time for the English to stand up and dominate.

The English had achieved a lead of over a hundred runs and were looking to create some panic in the opposition ranks. Walking in at 137/3, Michael Clarke was able to produce an innings of calm and responsibility which took his side to safety. Scoring the only century of the match – 103 of 192 balls – as he ensured that the match was drawn, and Australia stayed alive to fight again.