Michael Clarke has revealed that he will not play in the Big Bash League in January.
Clarke, who succeeded Ricky Ponting as Australia captain in March, has decided to concentrate on that role during what will be a busy time for the national side.
The 30-year-old will make his Test captaincy debut against Sri Lanka next month, before embarking on a hectic summer schedule which will see the Aussies take on South Africa, India and New Zealand.
With the Big Bash League due to start in the midst of those Test series, the right-hander had opted to shun the tournament.
"With the greatest of respect to everybody involved in the KFC T20 Big Bash League, I will not be committing for this year," said Clarke.
"My goal is to play Twenty20 cricket domestically, for sure. But at the moment, I want to prioritise my time and commitment to my role with the Australian team.
"We have a big six months ahead and my commitment and focus is with those teams."
The Sydney Sixers had hoped to entice Clarke to represent them in the Big Bash League.
Liam Apicella
