Cricket Australia has not imposed any batting restrictions on the injured national captain, though it is likely Clarke's desire to spend time in the middle to build form for the World Cup will be balanced by the need to avoid placing too much pressure on his surgically repaired hamstring tendon so early in his comeback. He will not field in the game.

Clarke, who had surgery 46 days ago, will not bat with a runner, nor has there been a point set at which he must retire, though CA's medical staff are "determined to maintain a conservative approach" with his rehabilitation.

There is a school of thought that says Clarke may be better placed making a 50 or 60 for his club, Western Suburbs, rather than playing a marathon innings.

The act of batting is unlikely to physically trouble Clarke, who resumed batting in the nets more than a fortnight ago, though running between the wickets will provide a sterner test. Quick singles are unlikely to be pursued, though running may be limited on the postage-stamp size Chatswood Oval, which is regarded as one of the smallest grounds in Sydney grade cricket.

"I dare say it is a step in his recovery, so quick singles might be something that's less of a priority than spending time in the middle, but knowing how determined Michael is and how much work he's put into his recovery, I dare say he's likely to surprise a lot of people," said Wests coach Russel Grimson.

"Michael will know his limits and communicate it with his players. I think we'll be in a really good position to get the best out of Michael and the team."

Should Clarke emerge unscathed from this weekend he will continue his rehabilitation in Brisbane next week before lining up for a Cricket Australia XI against Bangladesh at Allan Border Field on Thursday. CA expects him to field in a limited capacity in that game.

Clarke is said to be ahead of schedule to meet the February 21 deadline set by national selectors, though any setback could end his bold bid to be fit for the World Cup.

"Michael is making good progress following his injury and the subsequent surgery six weeks ago, and the fixture in Sydney this weekend when he will play only as a batsman, and next week's match in Brisbane, where he will play as a batsman with a limited fielding role, are all part of a gradual return to competitive action," said Australian physiotherapist Alex Kountouris.

"We are determined to maintain a conservative approach to the management of Michael's recovery, but should he come through these matches without any adverse reaction, he remains on target to return as per our original schedule for the second match of Australia's ICC Cricket World Cup campaign against Bangladesh in Brisbane on 21 February."

Opinion remains divided as to whether Clarke will prove his fitness, but he said his availability to play this weekend was a positive sign.

"But at the same time I know I have to respect the fact that I am on a daily program and there is no point in us getting too far ahead of ourselves," Clarke said.

"I know I need to take things one step and one day at a time and so, for now, all I am doing is focusing on things day by day and with a belief in a positive outcome."