Best knocks of Michael Clarke in the Ashes

1. Ashes 2013, 3rd Test Match, Old Tafford, Manchester

Michael Clarke (L) plays a shot during the second day of the third cricket test of the 2013 Ashes series.

Clarke has risen to become the undisputed leader of Australian cricket. But things were far from rosy. The team had embarked on yet another Ashes campaign in the very unfamiliar position of being firm underdogs.

The first two Tests had gone according to script and England had dominated both, winning comfortably in the process. Experts called this the worst Australian batting order ever fielded in an Ashes series, and Clarke too was targeted for his inability to score big.

But then, 187 sublime runs in an Australian total of 527 was the answer to all his critics. His bat did more than just talk; it made a sweet sound every time it was hit by leather. All those who watched the Test will remember Micheal Clarke, the Australian captain, who fought back and almost won Australia the match.

Had it not been for the intervention by the rain gods, this could have been an amazing counter-punch by Australia.

Clarke will continue to help the Australians win the remaining two Tests of this Investec Ashes series in whatever capacity he can. With a game that can be adapted to suit any situation, and a technique that can face any opposition, Clarke is sure to leave behind a rich legacy.