Brett Lee ruled out of first two Ashes Tests

Brett Lee has beeny ruled out of the first two Ashes Tests with a side strain - handing England a huge boost ahead of the opening clash.

The Australia fast bowler has undergone scans on what was initially believed to have been a rib problem, and will miss the Cardiff Test and the second match at Lord's next week.

Lee's absence is a massive blow to the tourists as he is one of the few members of the squad with Ashes experience and bowled himself into the starting XI with a stunning performance in the draw against England Lions at Worcester last week.

The 32-year-old took six first-innings wickets and also found devastating reverse swing with the old ball, a quality which was instrumental when England regained the urn in this country four years ago.

England batsman Kevin Pietersen has shared many battles with Lee, and said: "Brett Lee is a superstar performer. His not being able to play is a bit of a bonus for us, and a huge loss for them. It is sad for Brett. I saw him during the Indian Premier League. We keep in touch, and we're pretty good mates."

Lee, Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle were virtual certainties for Cardiff, with off-spinner Nathan Hauritz fighting with seamer Stuart Clark for the final bowling spot. The Aussies' options are now severely limited, with swing bowler Ben Hilfenhaus coming into the reckoning and Hauritz's chances possibly strengthened.

Lee has missed Australia's last four Tests since sustaining an ankle injury during the home series against South Africa last year.

He underwent surgery to cure the problem, and subsequently took part in the Indian Premier League, as well as playing both matches as the Aussies were knocked out of the World Twenty20 in the first round last month.