Injured Brett Lee to miss Travelex Tour of Sri Lanka

Australian fast-bowler Brett Lee has been forced out of the Travelex Tour of Sri Lanka with an ankle injury.

A replacement for the New South Welshman in the 15-man squad will be announced in due course.

Lee, who has already missed the first Test in Galle, injured his left ankle during last week's tour match against the Sri Lankan Board President's XI in Colombo.

Having undertaken an eight over practice spell yesterday (Tuesday 9 March), the decision to send Lee home was made this morning after he suffered more pain in the ankle joint.

He will return to Australia for consultation with leading foot and ankle specialist, Dr Martin Sullivan, who operated on Lee's ankle last October.

It is not yet known for how long he will be sidelined.

Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouri said: "Brett is suffering from inflammation at the back of the ankle joint.

"Given it is the ankle that was operated on last October, we felt it was prudent to get him seen to by doctors back in Australia, rather than remain on tour where it has become apparent that his condition hasn't improved," he said.

Brett Lee said: "Initially I felt pretty good after yesterday's training session, but once the pain returned, I knew that I was in trouble.

"I'm really disappointed because I thought that I might be on the improve after the treatment I've been receiving.

"I guess it's now back to square one, to try and rectify the problem once and for all.

"That's tough, but it's life I guess and I need to be as positive as possible to get back playing as soon as I can," he said.