Australia's Lee ruled out of World Cup

SYDNEY, Feb 23 (Reuters) Australia will be without their spearhead fast bowler Brett Lee at the World Cup after he was ruled out with an ankle injury today.

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 a form in one-day internationals and injuries to a number of key players.

The 30-year-old 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 He had been hoping to recover in time to make the trip to the West Indies but was officially withdrawn after visiting a specialist.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.

''To get told that you can't be a chance to play in the World Cup is really disappointing,'' Lee told reporters.

''I couldn't undergo those exercises, there's too much pain there... there was absolutely no chance of me playing in the World Cup.'' Australia's chairman of selectors Andrew Hilditch Australia had written to the International Cricket Council asking for Stuart Clark to replace Lee in the squad.

The request is expected to be little more than a formality with Clark certain to join the squad when they fly out next Wednesday.

''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,'' Hilditch said in a statement.

''However, it does give a tremendous opportunity for Stuart Clark to join the 15-man squad.'' ''REALLY DISAPPOINTING'' 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 told reporters.

''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 any new ball, I don't expect any favours.'' Australia have lost their last five matches -- their longest losing streak in a decade -- and are facing a mounting injury list.

All-rounder 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.

REUTERS PM PM1419