Brett Lee: an English summer ahead? © Getty Images

Four English counties have apparently expressed interest in Brett Lee for next season, a stint that sould come in handy for him ahead of the much-hyped Ashes campaign. Lee has had to carry the drinks for much of this Australian Test season, and with Michael Kasprowicz pulling off matchwinning efforts, the trend doesn't look like ending soon.

Worcestershire, Surrey, Leicestershire and Middlesex are believed to have shown an interest in Lee, the Sydney Morning Herald reported. Lee, who has been the 12th man for eight Tests running, has also missed out on some domestic cricket while carrying out his 12th-man duties.

"Playing county cricket is something we've explored, and we've had a chat to the selectors about it," said Neil Maxwell, Lee's manager. "The advice has been not to rush into anything ... Brett went through a flat period after missing out in Perth . . . but he's bounced back. I'm confident that ... Cricket Australia will change the 12th-man rule to allow flexibility."

The English county season begins on April 13, while Australia kick off their campaign with a tour game against Leicestershire on June 11.