Brett Lee is optimistic of recovering from the ankle injury that ended his participation in the Chappell-Hadlee Series in time for the ICC Cricket World Cup.
The Australia fast bowler injured his left ankle during training in Wellington and returned to Sydney to see a surgeon.
He said: "The good news is that don't have to have an operation. There are torn ligaments in my left ankle and yesterday I was in a lot of pain.
“When I went down I heard a crack in my ankle and things weren't looking good.
"After consulting with the doctor today I am more positive but it's too hard to say what the outcome will be.
"I'll be doing everything I can to make sure I have a chance of playing at the World Cup.
“As a fast bowler I have had stress fractures in my back and ankle surgery three times and have always overcome these injuries. There will be nothing different here and I know I will be able to bounce back."
Shaun Tait will replace Lee for the final two games of the current series.
