This was published 11 years ago
Brave Michael Clarke scores emotional century
It’s a moment already immortalised in cricket folklore – a crippled Michael Clarke, kissing the Australian badge after scoring a century at the Adelaide Oval.
But this ton against India in the First Test will be forever remembered among his 28 other hundreds for the true grit he showed to overcome an ailing back and heavy heart.
Just days after tearfully farewelling his great mate Phil Hughes, Clarke endured the emotions, the pain and even the weather before notching a truly remarkable milestone.
Clarke looked towards the heavens at the start of day one. (AAP)
It was an emotional moment for the Australian skipper. (AAP)
He then entered the fray with the score at 2-88. (AAP)
He was immediately met with the short stuff. (AAP)
But his class began to shine through. (AAP)
The captain embraced David Warner as the opener scored his century. (AAP)
Before he claimed his own half century. (AAP)
But then the dreaded sight - Clarke reaching for his lower back. (AAP)
Clarke tried to ease his ailing back into life. (AAP)
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