Lee to miss Third Test

By Malcolm Conn

SYDNEY, DEC. 10The immediate playing future of Australian cricket's newest superstar is clouded after Brett Lee was ruled out of next week's third Test with potentially serious back problems.

Lee complained of back stiffness during the Perth Test and has been diagnosed with ``significant bony stress'' in the left side of his lower back.

Australian team physiotherapist Errol Alcott said on Saturday the injury was likely to develop into a full-blown stress fracture if Lee continued bowling, which would result in him being sidelined for upto six months.

He will be rested and undergo further scans before the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, but if there is any suggestion the problem remains it is unlikely he will be risked during the remainder of the summer.

Lee, who has a history of back injuries over the past five years, will have his bowling action examined to determine whether the problem is the result of a technical flaw or workload-related.

Lee's unavailability means off-spinner Colin Miller is certain to be added to the Australian team for the Adelaide Test to be announced on Monday with Queensland paceman Andy Bichel also retaining his place.

Damien Martyn will be named as injured skipper Steve Waugh's replacement while the elevation of Adam Gilchrist and Ricky Ponting to the respective roles of captain and vice-captain will be ratified by the Australian Cricket Board on Tuesday.

Likely Australian team: Adam Gilchrist (capt.), Ricky Ponting (v- capt.), Michael Slater, Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Mark Waugh, Damien Martyn, Jason Gillespie, Stuart MacGill, Colin Miller, Glenn McGrath, Andy Bichel (12th man to be named).

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Section  : Sport
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