Lee might not play county cricket after all

Brett Lee would be hoping to play in the Ashes © Getty Images

Brett Lee might not play county cricket this season, according to Neil Maxwell, his manager. Lee, who was approached by four county sides, has not played Test cricket for 14 months, and he was also sidelined in the Test series against New Zealand.

"There's nothing at this stage and we're yet to assess things, but I'd have to say it's unlikely at this stage," Maxwell told AAP. "He's got pretty good fitness levels and they [Australia] have got a training camp in late May, so he'll maintain his fitness."

Shane Warne, who is due to captain Hampshire this season, reckoned that Lee would have been better off without a county stint. "It's very disappointing for him not to be playing," he said. "He's bowled so well in the one-dayers but I know he'll be ready whenever his chance comes."

Simon Katich is another Australian who would have a county stint with Hampshire.