Michael Clarke eager to work with new coach Mickey Arthur

AUSTRALIAN cricket captain Michael Clarke says the appointment of new coach Mickey Arthur is a timely one for the national team going into this summer's Tests against New Zealand and India.Arthur was unveiled as Australia's new coach yesterday, hours after Clarke's team claimed a thrilling two-wicket win over South Africa in Johannesburg to finish the two match series with the Proteas 1-1.Clarke and the rest of the Australian team returned home today and the captain said he was happy with South African Arthur's appointment, even though it's widely believed he had backed former Test wicketkeeper and current fielding coach Steve Rixon for the role."I'm stoked that we've got a coach," Clarke told reporters at Sydney Airport."Mickey has done a fantastic job in the past with South Africa and we're just really excited and looking forward to working with him."Clarke admits his relationship with Arthur is no more than that of acquaintances but the pair will have to quickly start working together with Australia's new five-man selection panel to discuss tomorrow the squad for the first Test with New Zealand in Brisbane next week.Clarke and Arthur will link up with new chairman of selectors John Inverarity as well as part-time selectors Andy Bichel and Rod Marsh with several players in doubt for the Gabba Test.Mitchell Johnson (toe), Shane Watson (hamstring), Ryan Harris (hip) and Shaun Marsh (back) are all under an injury cloud, while veteran duo Ricky Ponting and Brad Haddin remain under a form spotlight despite half-centuries in the second innings at the Wanderers.Clarke said it was unclear what line-up he would take into the Gabba."There's obviously going to be some changes going into the first Test," he said."I have a phone hook-up with the other selectors on Thursday and I'd imagine the team would be announced shortly after that conversation."