IPL 5: Michael Clarke to replace Yuvraj Singh in Pune Warriors

It’s official: Michael Clarke will represent Pune Warriors India in IPL 5.

The Australia skipper, who stayed away from the Twenty20 extravaganza all these years, was signed up as Yuvraj Singh’s replacement. The classy right-hander is, without doubt, the biggest overseas player to have been signed by any franchise this season.

DNA had, in its February 18 edition, reported that Clarke was on the franchise’s radar. “Having got the go-ahead from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to recruit players from outside the auction register, Pune Warriors have launched a search for big names and the Australia skipper is on their shortlist,” it was reported in these columns.

Clarke’s arrival means that the franchise will have a back-up captaincy option. Soon-to-be 40 Sourav Ganguly has been named skipper for the upcoming season.

Clarke, however, will only be available after Australia’s tour of the West Indies ends on April 27. For the record, IPL 5 runs from April 4 to May 27.

“Michael Clarke’s presence in the side, and cricketing proficiency, will boost the prospects of Pune Warriors India,” said Sahara Adventure Sports managing director Sushanto Roy.