Australia captain Michael Clarke has described Ryan Harris as one of the best cricketers to have played for the country.

The 35-year-old bowler announced his retirement from all forms of the game on Saturday due to a knee injury.

Harris was named in the Australia squad for the upcoming first Ashes Test against England, but he has now been replaced by Pat Cummins.

"There's no doubt that we'll miss him," Clarke told reporters. "I think it's important for us to celebrate his career. He's as good as anyone to have played for Australia."

Australia won their final warm-up match ahead of The Ashes on Saturday as they secured a 169-run victory over Essex in Chelmsford.