Cricket: Why aren't Australia sledging?

Michael Clarke and Shane Watson of Australia during day four of the tour match between Kent and Australia. Photo / Getty Images

Michael Clarke has done and said many things in his life, but when it comes to the Ashes one incident resonates most with some cricket fans.

It is Clarke's declaration that Jimmy Anderson get ready for a "broken ******* arm" during the first Test of the 2013-14 series.

The incident is often cited as a prime example of Australia's aggressive approach on the pitch, where 'banter' flows thick and fast.

The crowd of almost 2000 that entered Canterbury's St Lawrence Ground on Sunday saw a different side of Clarke.

As Daniel Bell-Drummond completed a dashing century, there was no niggle toward the 21-year-old.

Far from it.

Clarke made an effort to shake the hand of the star-struck youngster, who smacked 127 runs off 112 balls.

"I can't remember exactly what he said but it was along the lines of - brilliant knock and well played," Bell-Drummond said.

"It's really great hearing that from a world-class batsman and Australia's captain, for him to say that was a brilliant touch."

Clarke's cordial approach was mirrored by his teammates according to Bell-Drummond.

"You see them sledge a lot on TV, but not a lot was said out there to be honest," the Kent opener said.

"Obviously it was intense, but nothing was really said sledging-wise."

It remains to be seen whether that is the case on July 8, when the sport's showpiece series starts in Cardiff.

Not only do the stakes go up, there is existing ill-feeling between the two sides.

Anderson, who described sledging as good for the game earlier this year, recently called for an armistice.

Legendary legspinner Shane Warne channeled his inner Darryl Kerrigan in response, saying Anderson would "cop it from the Aussies more than anyone".

-AAP