Lee ruled out of series
Australia's injury problems deepened on Wednesday morning as Brett Lee was ruled out of the series after his ankle injury flared up again following a training session
Charlie Austin
10-Mar-2004
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Lee had initially injured his left ankle during Australia's practice match
last week. X-rays revealed no structural damage and Australia had
been hopeful that he would be fit in time for the second
Test in Kandy next week. But post-training soreness forced the team
management to send him home.
"Brett [Lee] is suffering from inflammation at the back of his ankle joint,"
said Kontouri. "As a result we felt it was prudent for him to be seen by
doctors in Australia, rather than remain on tour where it is now apparent
that his condition is not improving." Lee will have his ankle checked by Dr Martin Sullivan, a foot specialist.
"Initially I felt pretty good after the training session but once the pain
returned I knew I was in trouble," Lee said in a statement. "I am
really disappointed. I guess it's back to square one now to rectify the
problem. That's tough but I need to be as positive as possible to get back
as soon as possible."
Lee's withdrawal paves the way for a possible return of Glen McGrath.
McGrath failed to convince the selectors of his form or fitness when the
Test squad was initially selected but he has now returned to first-class
cricket and claimed he is ready to return to the national team.
Kasprowicz, meanwhile, sprained his shoulder after colliding with a ball boy
just before close of play on the second day. Kasprowicz did not appear to have
injured himself at the time but he suffered pain in his right shoulder
afterwards and the team management decided not to risk further aggravation.