Clarke to miss first Windies Test

Batsman Michael Clarke will join Australia's touring party in the West Indies on 23 May, on the second day of the first Test in Jamaica.

Clarke was in Sydney on Friday for the funeral of Graham Bingle, his fiancee's father, and he will remain with her family for a few more days.

Cricket Australia said Clarke had its "absolute support" at a difficult time.

It is expected that Simon Katich will take Clarke's spot for the first Test after a tremendous domestic season.

Brad Hodge, meanwhile, who was called to the Caribbean as cover for Clarke after playing in the Indian Premier League, will be released unless he is picked in the squad for Kingston.

Clarke said: "It has been a tough week for Lara and her family and I am glad I have been here.

"We are grateful for the numerous cards of condolence over the past week and the kind words from friends, family and the public.

"I will miss the first Test and am sure the boys will serve Australia well. I am looking forward to catching up with the team and being ready to go for the second Test in Antigua."

Test squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke, Beau Casson, Stuart Clark, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, Ben Hilfenhaus, Mike Hussey, Phil Jaques, Mitchell Johnson, Simon Katich, Brett Lee, Stuart MacGill, Ashley Noffke, Andrew Symonds.

ODI squad: Ricky Ponting (captain), Michael Clarke, Nathan Bracken, Stuart Clark, Brad Haddin, Matthew Hayden, James Hopes, David Hussey, Mike Hussey, Mitchell Johnson, Brett Lee, Shaun Marsh, Andrew Symonds, Cameron White.