Australia captain Michael Clarke believes that the third Ashes Test will be a "special" encounter as he prepares to record his 100th Test appearance for his nation.

Despite admitting that he is "proud" of his achievements with Australia, who currently lead the series 2-0 Down Under, the 32-year-old has insisted that he is not focusing on the milestone.

"With regards to being your 100th Test, it's not a focus for me at all," BBC Sport quotes Clarke as saying. "There's enough other reasons as to why this Test match is so special to me, and this team.

"It's fantastic that I've been able to play 99 Test matches for my country. It's something I'm certainly proud of. I'll have my family coming, which is extra special."

Clarke's opponent England captain Alastair Cook will also be playing in his 100th Test this week.