Clarke still hoping to play in Test series against New Zealand

Sydney, Mar 9(ANI): Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke expects to play in the Test series against New Zealand despite the controversy surrounding his fiancee, Lara Bingle.

Clarke is unsure when he would rejoin the team, but he is reportedly keen to get back in time to take part in the Test series, which starts from March 19 in Wellington.

"Michael has arrived home to support Lara through this difficult time," Fox Sports quoted Chris White, Clarke's manager, as saying.

The announcement of the squad has been delayed due to his unexpected dash home to Sydney.

Earlier, Clarke had quit the tour on Monday and flown home citing personal reasons.

His departure follows recent reports in the Australian media concerning Bingle, who is reportedly suing a former boyfriend after a nude photo of her was published in a magazine.

However, it is also believed that Clarke may also have left for family reasons, as his father, Les, has been battling cancer for some time. (ANI)