George Bailey stands ready to lead Australia into next year’s cricket World Cup if Michael Clarke is unable to take his place.
Bailey, 32, stepped in to captain Australia after Clarke injured a hamstring in the opening match of the recent ODI series against South Africa.
Clarke is facing a race against time to be fit for the World Cup after another hamstring injury suffered during the first Test against India required surgery, and while Bailey is hopeful Clarke will return in time, he is confident in his ability to skipper the side.
“I’ve enjoyed my time when I have had the opportunity to captain in Michael’s absence,” Bailey said on Friday.
“No doubt it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play in a World Cup in your own country.
“To have the honour of leading that team – whoever does that – it would be a huge thrill for them, particularly given the way the team is placed.
“We’ve played some really good one-day cricket and I think our best is as good as anyone’s in the world.”
Bailey led Australia to a 4-1 series win against the Proteas, but endured a lean run with the bat after scoring 70 in the first game.
“I’m just focusing on trying to get a few out of the middle personally,” said Bailey, whose next match is for the Hobart Hurricanes in Saturday’s BBL clash at the MCG against the Melbourne Stars.
“T20 is a good format to just be going out and enjoying yourself and that’s certainly been the focus around the country over the last few weeks.”
Steve Smith is captaining the Test side in Clarke’s absence with former skipper Allan Border calling for him to also assume that role in the World Cup should Clarke be ruled out.
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