Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has played down speculation that he could make a return to the national side for this summer's Ashes Test series.

Earlier reports had suggested that the 38-year-old might earn a call-up to the Australia team, but the batsman has since clarified his stance.

"That didn't really come across the way I wanted it. I sort of laughed off how unlikely it was," Ponting told BBC Sport.

"I sort of highlighted the fact that, yes, I'm over here playing but there are three or four reserve batsmen in the Australian squad.

"I'm a happily retired former international player that's over here fulfilling some commitments to Surrey, and I'm happy to sit back and enjoy the Test matches for what they are."

Ponting, who retired from international cricket in November 2012, currently plays county cricket for English side Surrey.