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Michael Clarke dispels retirement talk

Michael Clarke says that he has "four or five years left" in cricket as speculation that he could soon retire due to back problems gathers pace.

Australian captain Michael Clarke has dismissed claims that he will retire from cricket due to persistent back problems.

The 32-year-old is training for what will be his sixth Ashes series, beginning in Brisbane on November 23, and said that he feels fit enough to play for at least the next five years.

"I won't be retiring, not for a long time," he told The Telegraph.

"I feel as fit and healthy as I've been for a long time and my love and drive to have success and be a part of this Australian team and New South Wales team is as strong as ever.

"As long as I'm performing, I think I've got a good four or five years left in me."

Clarke was installed as permanent captain of Australia when Ricky Ponting stepped down in 2011.

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Australia captain Michael Clarke argues with the umpire during the fifth Ashes test on August 25, 2013
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