Michael Clarke today posted his highest score in the first New Zealand test match. His innings consisted of over 20 boundaries and two 6′s. He bought up his century in the final overs of the first day claiming he didn’t want to be in the late 90s over night.

He was dismissed on 168 by Daniel Vettori by a ball that drifted down leg side, allowing the wicket keeper to stump him. The Australian vice captains  innings comes after recent controversy involving ex-fiance bikini model Lara Bingle.

“The support I’ve had from family, friends, teammates … I’ve spoken to you guys about not wanting to talk about my personal life but the support I’ve had from Lara as well has been tremendous,”  he said.

Australia are in a strong position following Clarke’s innings with a total well above 400 on the second day.