Michael Clarke to regain Australian captaincy. (Source: Express Photo)

Coach Darren Lehmann says Michael Clarke is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a hamstring surgery and will captain Australia at next month’s Cricket World Cup.

Lehmann gave Clarke his backing Wednesday, saying he was “sick” of speculation about Clarke’s likely participation in the World Cup and his future as Australia captain.

Clarke will take a major step forward on Thursday when he plays for Cricket Australia XI against Bangladesh in a one-day warmup match at Brisbane’s Allan Border Field.

Cricket Australia has given Clarke time until Australia’s second World Cup pool match against Bangladesh on Feb. 21 to prove his fitness or be replaced. Australian media have reported Clarke’s prolonged rehabilitation has caused a rift with teammates and speculation he may lose the captaincy to Steve Smith.