Cricket: Dropped batsman to lead in Clarke's absence

Australia's captain Michael Clarke. Photo / AP

Skipper Michael Clarke will be rested from the Australian side for Friday's fourth one-day international against England in Perth, with George Bailey to captain the side.

Shane Watson, Brad Haddin and David Warner will also be rested.

While Clarke and Watson will return for the final game of the series on January 26, Haddin and Warner will also miss the Adelaide fixture.

On the back of their five-nil Ashes victory, Clarke's side claimed the one-day series against England at the SCG on Sunday with a seven-wicket win that handed them an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

Clarke revelled in another triumph for Australia after the game, but admitted to feeling tired after an arduous summer.

"I'm looking forward to spending a few days with my beautiful wife and not thinking about cricket at all," Clarke said.

"It's been a long, tough summer and I'm looking forward to a break."

Bailey takes on the captaincy in Perth as he returns from a groin injury that ruled him out of the SCG clash.

"He is in good hands, he has a few days to recover and he should be fine," Clarke said.

"He has shown he is a good leader. He is experienced and I know they can go to Perth and have success."

Mitch Johnson has been appointed vice-captain for Perth.

Steve Smith has been named in the squad and is likely to replace Clarke in the middle order, while Matt Wade will replace Haddin.

- AAP