Clarke backs out-of-form Johnson for SA tour

Australian skipper Michael Clarke is backing left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Johnson's selection for the South Africa tour saying that he remains an integral part of the Test side despite his dreadful form in recent months.

Johnson collected just six wickets at an average of 52 in Sri Lanka, and was outperformed by Ryan Harris, Trent Copeland and Shane Watson.

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Also in Johnson's favour is his excellent record against South Africa, whom he terrorized in 2009.

"He certainly has had a lot of success in South Africa. I thought he bowled really well with luck in one-dayers and throughout the Test series I thought he bowled really well, without much luck, to be honest," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Clarke, as saying.

"He's been a very successful bowler in all three forms of the game for Australia and I have no doubt that will continue," he added.

Australia sealed the three-Test match series in Sri Lanka 1-0 on Tuesday, and will now tour South Africa to play two Twenty20s, three ODIs and a two-match Test series.