There will be no Lee in the World Cup

“However, it does give a tremendous opportunity for Stuart Clark to join the 15-man squad,” Hilditch said. “Stuart was extremely unlucky to miss out on initial selection and, despite the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his inclusion, we strongly believe that Stuart is primed to seize his opportunity.”

Australian team doctor Trefor James said Lee injured ligaments in his left ankle last week while training in New Zealand. “Orthopaedic surgeon Kim Slater… has today advised me that the injury has not improved over the last week,” James said. “On that basis I have advised CA that Brett will not be fit to resume bowling for two to three months.”

Lee is one of several top-line Australian players struggling with an injury and is the first to be officially ruled out of the world tournament. All-rounder Andrew Symonds has been named in Australia’s squad despite an injured bicep that will sideline him in the early rounds of the tournament. Opening batsman Matthew Hayden has a broken toe and middle order star Michael Clarke a hip injury, threatening their participation.

“Though Brett’s injury is disappointing from a personal and team perspective, we strongly believe we are taking a squad of players more than capable of winning a third successive cricket World Cup,” Hilditch said.

Michael Brown, CA’s general manager of cricket operations, said he had informed the International Cricket Council of Lee’s injury and requested permission to name Clark as his replacement. “I have today advised (Clark) that, subject to ICC approval, I would expect him to be on the plane to the West Indies on Wednesday,” Brown said.

THE AUSSIE SICK BAY

Ricky Ponting

• Back problem, inflammation caused by bone spurs in spine. Had to take cortisone injections. Has to rest for four-five days immediately after injections.
Verdict: Feeling better, will play.

Brett Leen

• Injured ligaments in his left ankle last week during fielding practice at New Zealand. Doctor says it has not improved over the last week. Out of cricket for at least two-three months.
Verdict: Out.

Andrew Symonds

• Underwent surgery this month to repair torn bicep tendon in right shoulder. Still under recovery process.
Verdict: In squad, but sidelined in the early rounds of the tournament.

Matthew Hayden

• Broke a big toe in the third game of the Chappell-Hadlee series against New Zealand where they lost badly despite his heroics.
Verdict: Medical treatment should make him fit in time.

Michael Clarke

• Carrying a sore hip, the middle order bat had to fly back home without playing a match in the last series, which they lost 0-3, against New Zealand.
Verdict: Not too serious, will play.