Sydney, Jan 26 (IANS): Australian skipper Michael Clarke braved the pouring rain, powering through a wet training session at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) here Monday to continue his race against the clock to be fit for the ICC Cricket World Cup.

According to Cricket Australia (CA) website, the inured skipper ran lap after lap at a good pace and appeared unimpeded on his surgically repaired hamstring.

Clarke must be fit and available for selection for Australia’s second World Cup group stage clash against Bangladesh Feb 21 or he will be replaced in the 15-man squad for the remainder of the tournament.

But signs are looking good for the 33-year-old.

Clarke is said to be ahead of schedule, batting in the SCG nets and bowling this week, and has joined Australia’s training sessions in the lead-up to Monday's match between India and Australia, albeit in the role as spectator.

Clarke injured his right hamstring during the first Test against India in Adelaide, and underwent surgery Dec 16.

Rain stopped play in the tri-series clash with India 69 for two in their innings. The match had already been curtailed to 44 overs each after rain delayed the toss.