Sydney: Michael Clarke may just meet the fitness deadline to lead the national team into the World Cup starting February 14, even as many Australia cricket officials are mulling appointing Steven Smith as full-time captain after the 50-over showpiece event.

Clarke's recurring fitness issues and his continuing absence during India's tour has forced Cricket Australia to juggle with a couple of leadership options in the Test and ODIs and it is learnt that the decision makers are keen for a permanent change of guard before this year's Ashes tour of England.