Clarke rules out playing Big Bash

Sydney - Former Australia captain Michael Clarke Friday ruled out playing in this year's Twenty20 Big Bash League, opting instead to join a television commentary team.

Clarke announced this week he would play the opening three matches of the Sydney grade competition for his Western Suburbs club, fuelling speculation that he was priming for a return to T20 cricket.

He had earlier this year been in discussions about playing for the Sydney Sixers in the increasingly popular domestic Big Bash League.

"Really excited to announce that I will be part of the Channel Nine commentary team this summer," Clarke said in a video message on Twitter.

"It will preclude me from playing in the BBL, but I will be out there playing with my old club Western Suburbs. Can't wait."

The 35-year-old retired from international cricket last year after establishing himself as one of Australia's finest batsmen with 8 643 runs in 115 Tests.

He played his last T20 international in 2010.