Harbhajan needs professional help, says Webster

Cricket news in brief from around the world:

Renowned sports psychologist Rudi Webster has advised banned India spinner Harbhajan Singh to seek professional help to cope with the emotional demands of competitive cricket.

Harbhajan was banned for five one-day internationals this week for a slapping incident involving Shanthakumaran Sreesanth during the Indian Premier League match last month.

• Harbhajan banned from IPL

"Harbhajan must now learn to control his thinking and emotions and to keep his concentration focused and locked into the task at hand, particularly when he is under pressure," Webster told Friday's The Asian Age newspaper.

"I am sure there are many professionals in India who can help Harbhajan in those areas," said Webster, who has worked with the Indian team in the past.

*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Michael Clarke will miss the first Test against the West Indies in Jamaica after staying in Sydney to attend the funeral of his fiancee's father.

Cricket Australia (CA) said Clarke would not arrive in Jamaica until May 24, two days after the start of the first Test.

• Image: Michael Clarke consoles fiance Bingle

"I've spoken with Michael and he has Cricket Australia's absolute support that during this difficult time it is appropriate he spends a little more time with his fiancee's family in advance of leaving for the West Indies," CA general manager of cricket Michael Brown said.

(Editing by John O'Brien)