As well as forging a reputation as a dashing middle-order strokeplayer, Clarke has also shown himself to be a handy left-arm spinner, taking six wickets against India in Mumbai last year.

But after spending most of the third Ashes Test at Old Trafford receiving treatment for his back problem, Clarke said he was contemplating having to cope with the condition for a long time yet.

"I hope not but the reality is if it keeps happening, it's not going to be great for me," he said.

"I think it's important we work out why it's happening, what I am doing for it to occur. If it means stop doing something or not doing something as much, that's what I need to do."

Clarke left the field in the second over on Thursday at Old Trafford and was later said by Australia physio Errol Alcott to be suffering from lower disc irritation that had already been a problem for him in the one-day internationals earlier in the season.

"I just felt something go in my back. I wasn't sure, Ricky (Ponting, the Australia captain) came and grabbed me straight away and said, 'has it gone?'