The reason for Michael Clarke quitting the New Zealand tour to return to Sydney has become clear - he is feeling "confused and lost" about his long term relationship with Lara Bingle - since a nude photo of her was published in a Woman's Day magazine.

The photo was taken by her former lover Brendan Fevola and shows the model naked in the shower. It has apparently caused Lara much distress, and she she has since appeared in the very same magazine to protest her innocence.  

But sources close to Clarke said he is getting increasingly distressed and angry about the spotlight on his life, which has continued to grow since Bingle paired up with celebrity agent Max Markson.

The nude photo furore is thought to be the last straw and his fiancee's decision to sell her side of the story to Woman's Day for $200,000 is believed to be what finally pushed Clarke over the edge.

Clarke is expected to fly back in time for Australia's two-Test series against the Black Caps on March 19 but wants to get things straight regarding his relationship's future before then.

Sources in the fashion world said Bingle has confided she is resigned to the fact that Clarke will most likely ask her to move out.