Birmingham, July 28: Brett Lee was ruled out on Tuesday of playing in the third Ashes Test at Edgbaston by Australia vice-captain Michael Clarke.

Fast bowler Lee missed the first two Tests of the series, at Cardiff and Lord’s, with a side injury and Clarke, speaking to reporters here, said he did not expect the veteran quick to be fit in time to face England.

"I don’t think that Brett is going to be right for Thursday. He only bowled off three or four steps today in the nets," Clarke said. "He is doing plenty of fitness work and is working very hard to get himself right.

"I am not sure exactly how far away he is but I think he is out of contention for Thursday."

Australia are 1-0 down in the five-match series after their 115-run defeat in the second Test at Lord’s, which came after England clung on for a draw with one wicket standing in Cardiff.

"We know we need to improve with bat and ball and perform at the highest level," said Clarke, who was guarded about whether Australia, with paceman Mitchell Johnson struggling, would make any changes to their side.

"The wicket looks better than we expected. It is quite dry. I would imagine that spin will play a part in this game. I don’t think the forecast is great for the rest of the week and I am sure conditions will come into the equation when selecting the side." — AFP