Australia v Sri Lanka: Michael Clarke scores half century in first innings at SCG since death of Phillip Hughes

MICHAEL Clarke’s career-long love affair with the SCG continued as the captain showed he’s ready to spearhead Australia’s World Cup finals’ assault.

Australia's Michael Clarke hits a boundary during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup cricket match between Australia and Sri Lanka at the SCG. Pic Brett Costello

MICHAEL Clarke’s career-long love affair with the Sydney Cricket Ground continued on Sunday, as the captain showed he’s ready to spearhead Australia’s World Cup finals’ assault.

There were question marks raised over Clarke’s decision not to bat against Afghanistan in Perth, but any doubts over him being underdone were dispelled with a classy run-a-ball 68 against Sri Lanka.

The skipper gave a packed out SCG one heart-in-mouth moment when he appeared to pull up short from running a quick single in the 27th over when on 38.

Physiotherapist Alex Kountouris jogged out to the middle, never a good sign, but no treatment was given to Clarke’s hamstring and he powered on to add another 30 to his score and provide the foundation for Australia’s thrilling total of 9-376.

MAXWELL SPARKS AUSTRALIA’S TRIUMPH

Australia's Michael Clarke yells as he runs down the wicket while batting against Sri Lanka.

Glenn Maxwell (102 off 53) provided the fireworks in one of the great World Cup hundreds of all time, and Shane Watson revived his career with a brilliant 67 at No.6.

But after the early losses of David Warner and Aaron Finch it was the Clarke and Steve Smith partnership of 134, which set the innings up.

The majority of Clarke’s teammates made their first return to the SCG in the wake of the Phillip Hughes tragedy during the New Year’s Test.

But Sunday was Clarke’s first trip back out to that hallowed turf.

When asked about his emotions on match eve, Clarke — who wears a Phillip Hughes black armband every match he plays — said he wasn’t dreading a return to a ground he has dominated like few others.

“I don’t think it will be any different this game,” he said.

“(The emotion for Hughes) will be the same for the rest of my career, so I look forward to walking back on the SCG. It’s a beautiful ground, it’s my home ground.

“I’m looking forward to having a bat and hopefully scoring some runs.”

Clarke managed both, in a major boost to Australia’s hopes going forward.

The entire reason why such importance was placed on Clarke being part of this campaign was his proven abilities under pressure.

When he came to the crease Australia were in a precarious position at 2-41, on a wicket that was far different to anything the side has confronted all tournament.

But Clarke hardly played a loose shot until he was ultimately bowled by one of Lasith Malinga’s sling shots in the 32nd over.

After missing game one against England, sitting through a wash-out, falling cheaply amidst the carnage in Auckland and deciding to send others in ahead of him against Afghanistan — Clarke was the first to admit he wanted time in the middle.

Coming up with the goods in a pressure situation, and seemingly getting through with hamstring in tact will give not only Clarke, but the Australians confidence as they head into the business end of the tournament.

Clarke’s next visit to his beloved home ground might be for an all-important semi-final.