In order to help Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke cope with the blinding media spotlight following his break up from fianc
ée Lara Bingle, Cricket Australia has flown a psychologist to Wellington where the team is preparing for the first Test against New Zealand.

Ross Chapman's arrival to Wellington coincides with the end of Clarke's 10-day silence over the allrounder's personal crisis.

"Great to be back with the boys. Just home from a big training session. Thanks to all my followers for your support," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted Clarke, as saying on his Twitter page.

One CA official last night said Chapman's arrival in New Zealand had been planned prior to Clarke's split with Bingle, but there is no doubting his brief has changed dramatically in the wake of the past week's media circus.

As Clarke joined teammates for his first training session since his return to the tour, every player, plus coach Tim Nielsen and Chapman, attended an extended team meeting on Tuesday.

Clarke had become a virtual prisoner in his hotel room until security removed Australian TV crews camped in the foyer.

When a throng of TV cameramen and photographers positioned themselves near the players' race to get footage of him entering the field, he appeared through a back gate, grinning broadly.

He struck the ball firmly in the nets before leaving, again without saying a word. (ANI)