International career could be over for Australian paceman

Australia could be forced to do without pace bowler Brett Lee permanently with the veteran struggling to overcome a long-standing elbow problem.

The cricketer had surgery on the joint at the end of 2009 after injury meant he missed the entire summer period for Australia.

Lee has not played a Test for Australia since 2008 but has continued to be a key man in their one-day squad, however he has said now that his time playing for his country could be over as he is struggling to recover from the surgery.

The pace bowler has been a key part of Australia's attack, taking 310 wickets in 76 Test appearances, but injuries have hampered his career and this latest problem could be the final straw.

Lee told the Herald Sun that "anything is possible" but there is a high likelihood his international career for Australia could now be over.

"I may never bowl another ball and if that's the case, I'm so satisfied with my career and my longevity. I'm not saying it's definitely over," he said.

"I will see how the arm pulls up because I can't achieve any aspirations in cricket unless my body is functional."

Australia are managing to succeed without Lee in their one-day team at the moment and they recently defeated West Indies in the fourth ODI to secure victory in a five-match series.

The highlight of the latest win was the 324-7 recorded by Australia, the highest one-day score ever achieved at the Gabba.

Australia are set to face the West Indies again on Friday and the cricket odds suggest the home side should win the final game of the series.

The international cricket betting also indicates Australia should regain the Ashes when England visit next winter.