Absence of Symonds will have detrimental effect: Lillee

Chennai, Feb 7 (UNI) Former Aussie speedster Dennis Lillee today said the absence of all rounder Andrew Symonds would have a detrimental effect on Australia's bid for the third successive title in the World Cup to be held in the Caribbeans in March-April. Asserting that twice successive champions Australia were the favourites to win this time also, Lillee said Symonds had some great one-day performances for quite some time.

''Australia are the favourites at this stage. But I think, without Symonds, it will have a very detrimental effect on the team'', Lillee, who is here in connection with the annual camp at the MRF Pace Foundation, told UNI.

''There are good replacements. But Symonds is a great ODI performer'', he added.

Looking for a hat-trick of World cup titles after reaching the pinnacle in 1999 in England and in 2003 in South Africa, Australia's preparations for the mega event this time suffered a jolt when Symonds tore his biceps while batting against England in the day-night match on Friday last.

Symonds, who is a key player in Aussies bid for third successive title, underwent an arm surgery to reattach the biceps in his right arm and needed at least six or seven weeks to recover, which coincides with the World Cup matches.

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