IPL to help defuse controversies between India and Australia: Lee

Sydney, Mar 14 (UNI) Fast bowler Brett Lee has said the inaugural Indian Premier League (IPL) will provide some of his teammates an ideal preparation for the Caribbean tour and would also help to defuse the controversies between Australian and Indian players.

The fiery pacer expressed his disappointment that Australia could not fulfill it's commitment with Pakistan but added that security was a major concern and the decision was in the best of interests.

''But safety is our most important consideration right now, and Cricket Australia thought it wasn't safe enough for us to tour there, so it's as simple as that,'' he told reporters.

The 31-year-old added that playing in India for the IPL will ease off the tensions and controversies that prevailed during India's recent tour Down Under.

''I think it would be great for world cricket. If we can go and play and mix with these Indian players .... this will only enhance the way the two teams share the same view,'' he said.

He said IPL will keep some of his teammates match fit and will also provide a good amount of match practice that will be useful when the Australian team tour West Indies.

''It would be pretty tough on the body. To continue playing cricket would be the best thing for us,'' he said.

''I think any cricket is great preparation for a tour. As long as you're out there batting or bowling, and being out in the field.'' Lee said his teammates will follow CA's instructions and are totally committed to the governing body. He however, denied to have received any information about plans of another one-day series to fill the gap created by the postponement of the Pakistan tour.

''At the end of the day we're contracted to Cricket Australia.

We can play the IPL if CA allows us to.'' UNI XC RAR DB1032