Lee ruled out of Edgbaston Test

Brett Lee bowled off only a few paces in Australia's practice session, insufficient to be considered for selection this week

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Australia bowler Brett Lee has lost his battle to be fit for the third npower Ashes Test against England at Edgbaston.

Lee, 32, was already regarded as doubtful with the side strain that had kept him out of the opening two games at Cardiff and Lord's.

Vice-captain Michael Clarke confirmed today Lee will not be recovered sufficiently in time to face Andrew Strauss' side on Thursday.

Clarke said: “I don't think that Brett is going to be right for Thursday. He only bowled off three or four steps today in the net.

“He is doing plenty of fitness work and is working very hard to get himself right.

“I am not sure exactly how far away he is but I think he is out of contention for Thursday.”

Clarke was pleasantly surprised when he had his first view of the Edgbaston wicket today as Australia look to bounce back from their defeat at Lord's.

He said: “The wicket looks better than we expected. It is quite dry. I would imagine that spin will play a part in this game.

“I don't think the forecast is great for the rest of the week and I am sure conditions will come into the equation when selecting the side.

“We know we need to improve with bat and ball and perform at the highest level.”