Clarke lauds batting trio after record-breaking win

2015 World Cup

Cricket365
March 7, 2015

Australia captain Michael Clarke gave high praise to batsmen David Warner, Steve Smith and allrounder Glenn Maxwell after the Aussies recorded a record-breaking World Cup win over Afghanistan in Perth on Wednesday.

Opening batsman Warner scored a career-best 178 and Steve Smith, batting at number three, hit 95, as the two put on 260 for the second wicket after the early dismissal of Aaron Finch.

Maxwell then came in and blasted 88 off just 39 balls, as Australia accelerated to a 417 for six in their 50 overs, a new World Cup record total.

Clarke opted not to come in at his usual number four slot, infact the skipper did not bat at all, opting to rather to send in Maxwell and other big hitters ahead of him as the overs ran out.

After the match, Clarke said: "Very good win. Outstanding with the bat. Davey Warner exceptional, Steve Smith beautiful, Glenn Maxwell fantastic.

"It was about 11 overs to go and I sent Maxi in ahead of me, with our highest World Cup score opportunity. I was looking to bat at four, but it was best for the team. The way Maxi and the boys batted showed I did the right thing."

Australia then bowled the Afghans out for 142 inside 28 overs to win by a margin of 275 runs, which was another tournament record.

The Australia skipper also said it was good to see allrounder James Faulkner back in the side after he recovered from a side strain to take the place of Shane Watson.

Clarke added: "It was good to see James back. His bowling was outstanding. He will be there for the game against Sri Lanka. The selectors thought this was the best XI for these conditions. We will see what is the best XI for Sri Lanka."