Sydney: After missing tour to India due to back problem, Australia captain Michael Clarke now all fit for the first Ashes test against England beginning Nov. 21 in Brisbane, as on his comeback he made 88 Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania.
Clarke had not played since Australia's tour to England six weeks ago.
He struck eight fours before falling 12 runs short of his century after flashing at a wide ball from Sam Rainbird to be caught behind.
'It was nice to make a few runs, disappointed with my shot and to get a start and throw it away is disappointing, but it was nice to spend so much time out in the middle,' Clarke said.
'I certainly needed it and there was a bit of rust there that's for sure but it is nice to contribute.'
On whether he was troubled by his back, the 32-year-old added: 'Not at all, I felt completely fine.
'I was certainly a little bit rusty and I think my legs will certainly be a little bit heavy tomorrow but it's a nice feeling to spend so much time in the middle.'
