Darren Lehmann backs Michael Clarke to continue as Australia captain

Darren Lehmann has backed Michael Clarke as Australia captain, saying that he is "sick" of the continuing speculation over Clarke's future.

Clarke has spent time out with a hamstring injury, putting his place in the Australia squad at the Cricket World Cup and his role as captain into doubt, according to reports.

However, Lehmann has given his support to 33-year-old Clarke, saying: "He's captain of Australia, the second most important position behind the Prime Minister and as such, we need our captain playing well.

"I'm sick of it. We all get on, that's the great thing. Media can say what they like."

The World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, starts on February 14.