Aussie cricket captain Clarke to make IPL debut

Australia captain Michael Clarke will make his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut this season after being signed by Pune Warriors, the franchise announced on Wednesday. "We are thrilled to have Michael Clarke on board. The reigning Australian skipper is one of the world's best cricketers," the franchise said in a statement. "His presence in the side, and cricketing proficiency, will boost the prospects of Pune Warriors India in the IPL 2012." The Australian skipper, 30, had previously resisted the lure of playing in the Twenty20 tournament. He came close in 2009 before withdrawing from the IPL auction to focus on playing for Australia. "Clarke was exceptional in the recent Test series against India, as batsman and captain," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. "He is a very popular cricketer in India and followers of the sport are eagerly looking forward to his participation in the IPL." The Australian players will miss the first three weeks of the IPL because of an upcoming Test series in the West Indies, but will be available for the final month of May. The fifth edition of the IPL will be played from April 4 to May 27.