Clarke confident of resolution
June 17, 2012 14:47:40 UK
Michael Clarke hopes there will be no need for strike action in the dispute between players and Cricket Australia.
Michael Clarke is hopeful of a resolution. Clarke believes the dispute could be resolved in the next week.There is still no resolution to the current memorandum of understanding, which lapses at the end of June.
If there is no agreement before June 30, there is a real chance the players' union will consider all their options, including industrial action, although Clarke is confident that won't be the case.
"I guess from a player's side of things we're really keen to get this going," the Australian skipper said before flying out for the UK.The last (thing) we want to do is go on strike.
"I don't want to miss too much cricket for Australia and I think it's best for everybody the sooner its gets done the better."
CA are trying to introduce a performance-based system, although Clarke believes the current system – where most players are on one-year deals – is a similar model.
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Clarke is adamant the players are only after a deal that is best for the game.
"One thing I do know about the players is we're asking for nothing more than we've had," Clarke said.
"We believe the most important thing is giving back to this game, not just for the players that are playing today but for the future of the game.
I don't want to miss too much cricket for Australia.
Michael Clarke
"We want what's fair and for the game to continue to be the number one game in this country and hopefully also the world.
"As captain of the Australian team we will do whatever it takes for this game to grow."
Australia, who are 4.50 to reclaim the Ashes next year, will spend four weeks in the UK and play five one-day internationals against England as well as another game against Ireland. England are 1.44 in 2013 to win their third successive series against their fierce rivals.
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