Not sure whether Brett Lee will be able to don the role of lead bowler for Australia in Test matches for too long. And this is not speculation about the post-McGrath era - Im talking about the present. For all his efforts Brett Lee had a pretty average tour of England with the ball - results-wise. The impression is quite contrary but the stats will tell you something different. He was overall more or less on the expensive side- Although his strike rate was good. And never could he put in "a" decisive spell (except perhaps Edgbaston second innings). Overall too his test career record is quite average. He is quite simply unable to provide the supreme control Jason Gillespie did before he fell away.
In fact, before the Ashes Lee hadn't played a Test in over an year, because he was unable to command a place in the side. It was his great form in ODIs combined with a loss of form for Kasper and Gillespie that propelled him back in. Though he showed plenty of effort, enthusiasm and heart in England and was superb with the bat he just did not get the results with the ball.
He also seemed quite lame today. I wonder how long Australia will persist with him at the highest level. Is there a replacement waiting in the wings ? I really don't see any - and given that McGrath is in his last phase, I feel strongly the chances are bright for a rejuvenated Dizzy to make a comeback.
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I agree the stats back you up: Lee was third in the Ashes averages, with 41.10. (But eighth in the batting averages with 26.33)
However, I disagree with you about a possible come back for Gillespie. He was simply dreadful over here in England. He only took 3 wickets at an average of 100 and understandably Ponting had lost all faith in him and was clearly reluctant to bring him on.
I don't have any solutions, but the Sheffield Shield has a habit of producing international talent, so watch this space.
Incidently if you wish to view an English perspective, please visit my blog at: englishcricket.blogspot.com
Lee's place in the team should be as an outright strike bowler. Used in short, sharp spells to break partnerships and keep the batsmen on the back foot.
In the Ashes he was used more as a workhorse taking a fair chunk of the bowling and this was predominantly because there was little reliable 'seam' support. He's always going to go for some runs, but his strike rate compensates.
I doubt if Gillespie will come back, (less to do with talent or form, more to do with the unlikelihood of the selectors doing a U-Turn) but the point is, is there another 'metronome' who can accompany McGrath to hit a perfect line and length 99 times out of a 100 and allow Lee to let rip when needed. If the Aussies try and turn Lee into a McGrath they will be losing the one asset that he surely posseses, frightening pace.
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