Lee credits IPL for form resurgence
Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has credited his stint with his Indian Premier League franchise, Kings XI Punjab, for getting back in form. He now has his sights firmly set on the upcoming ICC World Twenty20 2009 and the subsequent Ashes series.
Lee - considered one of the fastest bowlers in the world at one point - was recently plagued by injuries to his foot which kept him out of the game since December last year.
He made his comeback for his national side in a one-off Twenty20 International against Pakistan at Dubai earlier this month. Although Australia lost that game, Lee bowled impressively conceding 22 runs and picking up one wicket in his four overs.
Lee’s next assignment was when he joined his IPL franchise, Kings XI Punjab, mid-way through the Indian domestic tournament which is currently being held in South Africa.
Lee was again impressive as he replaced Yusuf Abdullah as one of the four international players permitted in the squad.
In a match against tournament leaders – Delhi– Lee’s fast deliveries were crucial in his team securing a much-needed win. Lee gave away just 15 runs as Mohali won by six wickets.
Lee was rightly named Man of the Match for his efforts and he credited the IPL for his form resurgence saying, “I am looking forward to the Ashes. And I want to take that brand new ball. But that's a fair way off now. I have got the ICC World Twenty20 to try get into form and the IPL has been a brilliant platform for me to prepare a comeback into international cricket.”
The ICC World Twenty20 takes place less than two weeks after the finals of the Indian Premier League and Australia will be counting on Lee to help them win the trophy from defending champions, India.
Although he has been plagued by a series of foot problems in the past, Lee says that he is feeling fully fit right now.
“When you had five ankle operations then you have got to try and get through it somehow. I am not worried about the ankle now, actually felt 100 percent. I am actually enjoying the challenge,” the pacer was quoted as saying on iplt20.com
Australia’s first match of the ICC World Twenty20 will be against West Indies at Kennington Oval on June 6.