Australia's Clarke withdraws from start of WI tour
Cricket Australia released a statement saying Clarke had been granted "compassionate leave for private family reasons" and his arrival date in the West Indies remained unclear.
Domestic media reported that Clarke asked for a delay in his departure due to the failing health of his fiancee Lara Bingle's father Graham, who reportedly has liver cancer.
Clarke, who elected not to play in the lucrative ongoing Indian Premier League Twenty20 competition so that he could spend time with his family, became engaged to model Bingle during a holiday in New York in March.
"I will not be traveling to the West Indies with the team due to family reasons. I am looking forward to getting over there as soon as possible," Clarke said. "Both Lara and I would appreciate courtesy and privacy during this time. Thanks in advance for your understanding and support."
Mike Hussey will act as captain Ricky Ponting's deputy until Clarke rejoins the team, Cricket Australia confirmed.
Brad Hodge, currently playing in India, was named as shadow player and will join the squad en route to the Caribbean.
"Brad has had another strong domestic season with Victoria in all forms of the game. He is still very highly regarded by the National Selection Panel and this provides him with another opportunity to be involved with the Australian squad," chief selector Andrew Hilditch said.
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