Clarke won’t play against England in Cup opener

Michael Clarke has pulled out of the World Cup opener against England, leaving stand-in one-day captain George Bailey likely to take over the first stage of Australia's campaign.

The Aussies will play the old enemy at the Melbourne Cricket Ground from 2.30pm (AEDT) on Saturday.

However, coach Darren Lehmann said Clarke would not be taking the field.

Clarke played in Australia's warm-up game against the United Arab Emirates yesterday, top-scoring with 64 and bowling two overs.

Lehmann said Clarke had pulled up well from his efforts but they were concerned to make sure he was "100 percent fit" for Australia's second match against Bangladesh next Saturday.

"We're really comfortable with the decision," Lehmann told media.

Clarke had to pull out of the Test team early in the recent series against India after injuring himself.