The Australian skipper who was said to be in talks with the Pune Warriors India team for the IPL 2012 season, confirmed that he is talking to the team officials and might soon see a result for the deal. The deal is finalized and Michael Clearke has been signed by Pune Warriors India for the forthcoming season of the DLF IPL 2012.

Clarke’s T20 strike-rate of 108.85 meant he was never a marquee player in the format but he has been in outstanding form in the past year, and has shown aggression with the bat in ODIs, as was evident during his 117 off 91 balls in the second final of the CB series.Clarke retired from T20 International Cricket in January 2011 to concentrate in ODI and Test format. If Pune Warriors India has become successful signing him it will be a great boost for the team.

"Clarke was exceptional in the recent Test series against India, as batsman and captain. He is a very popular cricketer in India, and followers of the sport are eagerly looking forward to his participation in the DLF IPL 2012," Rajeev Shukla, Chairman, IPL, commented.

“We are thrilled to have Michael Clarke on board. The reigning Australian skipper is one of the world's best cricketers. His presence in the side, and cricketing proficiency, will boost the prospects of Pune Warriors India in the DLF IPL 2012” said Sushanto Roy, Managing Director of Sahara Adventure Sports Ltd.

Clarke had earlier thought of playing the IPL but in 2009, he removed himself from the auction when he decided that he wanted to focus more on contribution for the Australian team, rather than for the IPL. Sourav Ganguly, who was appointed the captain and mentor for Pune Warriors India, had said that the team officials are trying to finalize a deal with Clarke’s management.

DLF IPL 2012 will mark Michael Clarke’s IPL debut.