Ponting confirms Clarke will play in first Australia-New Zealand Test

Sydney, Mar. 14 (ANI): Vice-captain Michael Clarke will play in Australia's first Test against New Zealand in spite of breaking up with long-term fiancie Lara Bingle.

The Herald Sun quoted Captain Ricky Ponting, as saying Clarke would definitely be in the team.

Clarke is due back in New Zealand on Monday and Ponting said his squad would do all in their power to support their vice-captain ahead of the first Test, which starts from March 18.

"It has obviously been a tough time for him in the last few days at home. He was given as much time as he needed to get everything sorted at home. He'll come back being the vice-captain and an experienced player for us in the Test side and we'll give him as much support as he needs when he joins the group again and make sure he's ready to go," Ponting said.

Middle-order batsman Mike Hussey said on Sunday he wanted Clarke back in the squad as soon as possible and fully focused on cricket.

"We haven't really spoken much about it at all. It's pretty much him dealing with his issues off the field. To be honest it's probably none of our business really," Hussey said on Sunday.

"We want him back as quickly as possible because he is an integral part of our team and a very fine player. We want him back and 100 per cent focused on playing well for Australia," he added.

Australia will resume training on Tuesday for the first Test. (ANI)