Test captain Michael Clarke labeled Ryan Harris “as good as anyone who has played for Australia” after the fast bowler announced his retirement on Saturday because of injury.

The 35-year-old quit the squad four days before the first Ashes test against England in Cardiff after scans on his injury-prone knee showed he would need another lengthy recovery.

"I've said through my career that he is my No. 1 pick bowler in any team I've played with," Clarke told Britain's Sky Sports.

"Every time I've asked him to do a job for me he's done it, I think if I asked him to run through a brick wall for me he would have a crack at it.

"He's given his best for every team he's played for and he loves winning, which is a great trait to have. He's as good as anyone who has played for Australia and I hope everyone celebrates what has been a great career," said Clarke.