Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has confirmed that he will take an indefinite break from cricket after pulling out of a deal for this season's Big Bash.

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

Clarke announced his retirement from international cricket last month after losing the Ashes series to England.

"I just think my body and mind need time away from the game of cricket," he told Triple M radio.

"I just need to take myself away for a little while. Just to see what that's like. I'm really hopeful the love and passion that I've always had for the game will come back."

Clarke scored 8,643 runs in his 115 Tests for Australia.