Michael Clarke echoes MS Dhoni in making calls for changes in ODI playing conditions

Michael Clarke acknowledges the MCG crowd after being dismissed against New Zealand

Melbourne, March 29: Australian skipper Michael Clarke has said he would like to see five fielders outside the 30-yard circle instead of the current four during the non-powerplay overs to allow bowlers more protection in One-Day International (ODI) cricket.

Currently only four fielders can be placed outside the 30-yard circle during the regular overs, and that number is further reduced during the powerplay overs, which helps batsmen to score at a brisk pace throughout the match.

Clarke’s sentiments are similar to Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni who felt that the current ODI rules are loaded heavily in favour of the batsman.

Five-fielder rule adds spin to the game: Clarke

Clarke's comments add more fuel to growing calls by several experts who demand a change in the rules. The 2015 World Cup has seen a rise in match scores as new rules have facilitated batsmen to score freely.

"I guess what I really loved growing up was I loved five fielders out rather than four fielders out. I think it gives the bowlers more of a chance. I think it brings spin a lot more into the game," he said after leading his team to title triumph against New Zealand on Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

"The only thing is it probably means the runs scored aren't going to be as high as what they have been throughout this tournament. But I like that extra fielder out for the bowlers, especially these days, the wickets are pretty good for batting."

Two new balls rules out reverse-swing: Clarke

Australia won the final by seven wickets to lift the trophy for the fifth time. Clarke also spoke against bowling with two new balls upfront saying it takes the reverse-swing factor out of the game and gives the bowlers little chance of taking quick wickets.

"And I've always liked reverse swing playing a big part in any format of the game, and I think two new balls probably takes that out of the game. You don't see as much reverse swing. I think back to when I started my career, that was two areas of the game that it was quite hard."

The 33-year-old said it is hard to score if the ball reverse swings.

"It's hard to score when you walk in to bat on zero and the ball is reverse swinging, it gives the bowlers a chance of getting you out early. So yeah, they're probably two of my personal preferences that I really enjoyed through my career," he said.