Pakistan v Australia 2009
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Australian coach Tim Nielsen has hinted that fast bowler Brett Lee may be fit in time for the lone Twenty international against Pakistan, though he ruled out the possibility of Lee playing a part in the two remaining ODIs in the series.
"He [Lee] bowled in the nets but we will not play him on Friday," Nielsen told AFP. "If he continues to progress well, we may consider him for the Twenty20 match."
The 32-year-old, who has been absent from international cricket after an injury sustained last year during the Boxing Day Test against South Africa, has been progressing well towards full fitness after ankle surgery in January.
He arrived in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and trained with the Australian squad the following day. Australian team doctor Trefor James said Lee would be monitored and may be considered for selection later on during the series.
Lee hoped to be at his best in time for the Ashes, and wanted to lead the bowling attack against England in two months' time. "I am really close (to full fitness)," he said. "The main aim here is the Ashes, with all due respect to all other cricket. If I'm back to my best, which I hope to be doing, I don't see a problem at all [in being selected]. Hopefully, my 10-year-career... will speak for itself, provided I am fit, of course."