Australia puts left-armer in cotton wool before 2nd test

Australia captain Michael Clarke says resting in-form players like Mitchell Starc is a reality of modern sport and it could lengthen his playing career.

The 22-year-old Starc was crushed when told he’d be rested for today’s second test against Sri Lanka at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, after claiming 5-63 in Sri Lanka’s second innings in last week’s first test in Hobart.

While the left-armer has a fine record of 24 wickets in six tests, the New South Wales quick is also set to play vital roles in Australia’s one-day international and Twenty20 International series this summer against Sri Lanka and West Indies.

Australia have promoted debutant Jackson Bird and recalled Mitchell Johnson for Starc and Ben Hilfenhaus (side strain).

‘‘I’m not really sure if I like that word ‘rotation’,’’ said Clarke, who as captain is one of five national selectors.

‘‘It’s more player management than rotation.

‘‘It’s not something we as Australians are used to. I think it’s a reality of our sport now.

‘‘Mitchell Starc has done very well over the past couple of test matches and has had a really big 12 months. But we’re making decisions on Mitchell’s career.

‘‘We tour India, we have one-day cricket, we have Twenty20 cricket, we have Ashes home and away, Champions Trophy. It’s not a decision made on just this one test match.’’

Starc is likely to return for the Sydney test on January 3.

Meanwhile, Clarke put himself through a searching fitness test yesterday but is yet to decide if he’ll lead the side in the Boxing Day clash against Sri Lanka.

Clarke suffered a hamstring injury during last week’s first test in Hobart but in recent days has made steady progress at training sessions.

New South Welshmen Usman Khawaja, who has been out of the side for a year, is on standby for Clarke.