Clarke mentors Watson to help overcome LBW problem

Australian captain Michael Clarke had reportedly given advice and feedback to his former deputy Shane Watson on playing straight in order to overcome his LBW problem, during training on Thursday.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Clarke worked with Watson in the Northampton nets in the lead up to Australia's two-day tour match against the England Lions, even as his side's batting line-up continues to fight for toughness, game smarts and consistency.

The report further said that Watson, who has been out four times LBW during the ongoing Ashes series, had suffered this weakness for his entire career and had spent a week in London between the second and the third Tests working on improving his technique and resisting the urge to play across the line.

Confirming that Clarke helped Watson and the younger players, coach Darren Lehmann quipped that the advice for Watson was simple: play a straight bat and not get out LBW.

According to the report, Clarke spent most of his time with his former vice captain, standing down the wicket as batting coach Michael Di Venuto threw balls down.

Watson will captain the Australians in the tour match, with Clarke being rested, the report added.