Australia's skipper Michael Clarke succumbs to hamstring injury after striking lightning half-century

THE injury curse which is plaguing Australia’s pace attack has struck its most valuable asset in skipper Michael Clarke.

THE injury curse which is plaguing Australia’s pace attack has struck its most valuable asset in skipper Michael Clarke.

Clarke has retired hurt midway through the second session on day four at Bellerive against Sri Lanka, hampered by an apparent right hamstring problem.

Clarke had produced another sparkling innings, scoring 57 from 46 balls before his injury, steadying a ship which was starting to look wobbly post-lunch.

Cricket Australia issued a statement saying Clarke would be assessed but it doesn’t look promising, with the skipper likely to join Tasmanian Ben Hilfenhaus on the sidelines.

LIVE: Follow the action from day four of the first Test in Hobart

Hilfenhaus broke down yesterday with a side strain and although he bravely batted at No.11 he is unlikely to bowl in the second innings.

Clarke called for physiotherapist Alex Kountouris and looked noticeably concerned before leaving the field with his side 5-238.

The home side was then bowled out on the stroke of tea for 278, leaving the tourists needing 393 to pull off what would be a stunning comeback after they conceded a 114-run lead on the first innings.