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Clarke will make a great captain with time: Haddin

April 19, 2011 21:17 IST

Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin feels Michael Clarke is lucky to have former skipper Ricky Ponting by his side and said he would develop into a great captain with time.

"Since the time he (Clarke) was appointed as Australia captain, he has been doing a very good job," said Haddin, who has been roped in by the Kolkata Knight Riders for the Indian Premier League.

"He (Clarke) has been lucky to have the class of Ponting in his apprenticeship. I think he will take somethings from what Ricky did well and move into his captaincy.

brad haddin and michael clarke"Ricky has been a tremendous leader for a long, long time. Mike is going to develop into a very good captain," Haddin said.

Clarke was appointed as Australia captain after Ponting decided to step down following his team's quarter-final finish in the World Cup.

Yet to play for Knight Riders, Haddin said it's quite exciting to be part of a side that has won three consecutive matches.

"It's been exciting to watch the cricket that we have been playing. It's all been good fun. Obviously there a fixed number (4) of foreign players who can play the game. That's part of tournament rule," he said.

Asked about his contribution to the side, Haddin said, "By just watching, there is not much you have to do. We have a pretty motivated group here. We are going in the same direction.

"We are looking to play exciting brand of cricket. It's been an exciting time for me to be a part of the side since last week.

"To win these tournaments you need big scores. I think that's the luxury we have. We have a healthy squad right through."

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