Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has decided to miss this season's Big Bash.

Clarke, who announced his retirement from international cricket after the Ashes defeat to England, will take an extended break from the game after battling injury for much of the last 12 months.

The 34-year-old had signed a two-year deal with the Melbourne Stars, but has come to an agreement with the franchise to be let out of his contract.

Melbourne lost to eventual winners the Perth Scorchers in the semi-final stage of last season's tournament.