Bailey replaces Clarke for remaining ODIs against New Zealand

Hamilton, Mar 9 : Australia has added batsman George Bailey to the squad for the remaining two ODI games of the Chappell-Hadlee series, after vice captain Michael Clarke quit the tour citing personal reasons.

"George is having an outstanding season in all forms of the game and richly deserves this opportunity to join the Australian squad," The Sydney Morning Herald quoted Andrew Hilditch, Australian chairman of selectors, as saying in a statement.

"George is a talented and exciting batsman and we are confident if the opportunity arises he will perform well at international level for Australia," he added.

A spokesman said that Clarke left the team hotel in Hamilton and it was not known when he would return.

His departure follows recent reports in the Australian media concerning Clarke''s fiancee Lara Bingle, who is reportedly suing a former boyfriend after a nude photo of her was published in a magazine.

However, it is also believed that Clarke may also have left for family reasons, as his father, Les, has been battling cancer for some time.