Brett Lee

Sydney: Australia will be without pace spearhead Brett Lee at the World Cup after he was ruled out with an ankle injury on Friday.

Lee’s absence is a further blow to the defending champions’ troubled build-up to the March 13-April 28 tournament in the Caribbean, following a loss of form and injuries to a number of key players.

Cricket Australia said Stuart Clark, who didn’t make the cut originally despite some impressive performances in the Ashes series, will replace Lee.

The 30-year-old Lee tore ligaments in his left ankle during fielding practice in New Zealand last week. He had been hoping to recover in time to make the trip to the West Indies but was officially withdrawn after visiting a specialist.

Australian team doctor Trefor James said a review by Lee’s orthopaedic surgeon showed he would not be fit to resume bowling for two to three months.

Australia’s chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch said in a statement: “It is a great disappointment for Brett Lee that he is unable to take place in the Cricket World Cup and is a significant blow for the planning and preparation in place for the tournament. However, it does give a tremendous opportunity to Stuart Clark.”

Clark said his selection was tinged with sadness for Lee.

“It’s really disappointing for Brett, because he’s a friend in the team and a friend outside of the team as well,” he said.

“It’s hollow, but I’m still excited about going to the World Cup.”

Lee is Australia’s main strike bowler and his withdrawal is a major blow to the team’s chances of winning the World Cup for the third time in a row.

Clark knows he cannot fill Lee’s shoes but is determined to prove his worth.

“I’ve got better at bowling in the power plays,” he said. “And that’s what I’ll be looking to do while I’m over there. (But) I don’t expect the new ball, I don’t expect any favours.”

Australia have lost their last five ODIs — their longest losing streak in a decade — and are facing a mounting injury list.

Allrounder Andrew Symonds underwent surgery this month to repair a torn bicep tendon in his right shoulder and opening batsman Matthew Hayden broke his big toe against New Zealand on Tuesday.

Skipper Ricky Ponting is recovering from a back problem and middle-order batsman Michael Clarke has a hip complaint.