'Don't know what they are thinking. He doesnt play in IPL': Michael Clarke slams Australia

Australia's decision to try Steve Smith in the opening slot has received mixed reactions and former Australian skipper Michael Clarke now joined the line. Smith was one of the surprising omissions in Australia's T20 World Cup squad last year. The Aussies failed to muster any success in the tournament and he has now been selected for Australia's tour of South Africa.

3 things you need to know

• Australia played out a 2-2 draw with England in the recently contested Ashes
• Australia will play a three match T20I and five match ODI series
• Mitchell Marsh will be captaining the T20 side

Australia picked up Steven Smith in the T20 squad against South Africa 

The 34 year old has remained one of the most esteemed batsmen to grace all three formats with sheer ease but his recent performances in the shortest format have come under scrutiny. Former Australian skipper Aaron Finch decided to hang up his boots earlier this year and Smith will fill in for his absence.

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The Aussie had a fantastic Ashes where the Australians dominated and retained the coveted Test trophy under their grab. Australia's chairman of selectors recently revealed that Smith would be opening for the side against South Africa.

Michael Clarke hits back at Australia for their treatment of Steve Smith

Michael Clarke hit back at Australia for their treatment of the player. In an  interaction with Big Sports Breakfast, he said, "I don't understand (Smith's selection) … that to me is embarrassing for the selectors. They had him in the World Cup squad last year, and he couldn't make the XI. He doesn't get a game, we go terribly in the World Cup. Selections over the past 15 months have been absolutely confusing. Smith not playing in that World Cup, I couldn't believe what I was seeing."

The player further cited Smith's lack of T20 cricket in recent post as he blamed the selection process doesn't have any accountability.

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"There's just no accountability. It's just swept under the carpet. I feel like I'm just watching a different game. I don't know what they're thinking with Smithy in the T20s. I don't think he's playing any other T20 cricket around the world. He's not getting a gig in the IPL, didn't get picked up there. He must still want to play though.", Clarke said further.