Clarke named Aussie captain

SYDNEY - The divisive Michael Clarke began his reign as Australia's new Test and one-day captain on Wednesday by denying former skipper Ricky Ponting's presence in the side would cause problems.

Long seen as heir-apparent, the stylish batsman, who turns 30 on Saturday, was appointed to one of the most coveted roles in Australian sport after Ponting bowed to pressure and quit on the heels of the team's World Cup exit.

Clarke jumps into the role immediately, leaving this week for a tour of Bangladesh as fans remain split on whether he is the right man for the job.