Australia captain Michael Clarke suffers injury setback forcing him out of the tour to India and raising fears over Ashes fitness

Clarke has suffered from chronic back problems in recent years and the injury picked up in the ODI series against England has taken longer to heal than expected

Michael Clarke has been ruled out of Australia's tour of India (GETTY IMAGES)

Australia captain Michael Clarke has pulled out of the one-day international tour to India due to injury - prompting question marks over his availability for the start of the Ashes series.

Clarke has once again been struck down by a chronic back complaint that has plagued him for some time, with the injury flaring up again in the ODI series victory over England.

His recovery has been slower than expected and he will miss the seven-match series in India as a result, while his participation against England Down Under must now be called into question.

Australian Team Physiotherapist Alex Kountouris said: "Michael Clarke has a longstanding low back injury that requires ongoing management.

"During the recent England ODI series his injury flared up again and has been slow to improve with his regular treatment regime.

"Michael will therefore not be available to play the upcoming India ODI series and will require a more extensive rehabilitation period before returning to competitive cricket."

More to follow...

PA