Clark to miss South Africa tour

Clark has been struggling with an elbow problem for some time

Seam bowler Stuart Clark will miss Australia's forthcoming tour to South Africa because he is still recovering from surgery on his right elbow.

The 33-year-old sat out the recent home series, which South Africa won 2-1.

And the decision not to consider him for next month's tour means he will not play any more Test cricket before the Ashes tour to England this summer.

Chief selector Andrew Hilditch said they were taking a "conservative approach" to Clark's recovery.

"Stuart hopes to play again for New South Wales at the end of February, a decision that will be made in close consultation with Australian and New South Wales medical staff," he explained.

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"Unfortunately due to this, Stuart will not be considered for selection in the Test squad for South Africa, which will be announced next week."

Clark has taken 90 wickets in 22 Test appearances at a cost of less than 23 runs each, having made his debut in South Africa in 2006.

And his absence is a further blow to Australia's chances of avenging their home defeat by the Proteas, with Brett Lee also ruled out after recently having an operation on his left ankle.

With neither available, Mitchell Johnson will lead an inexperienced pace attack, which could also feature the likes of Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and Doug Bollinger.

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