Lee hints at cutting pace for consistency

Sydney, Nov 12 (UNI) Striving for consistency to improve his economy rate, Aussie speed merchant Brett Lee says he will cut down on his pace as he settles down in his new role of being the spearhead of the World Champions' bowling attack.

''I want consistency,'' Lee told the 'Courier Mail' here.

After recording his fastest, a 160.8kmh delivery against New Zealand last year, Lee said the pace radar does not excite him the way it used to in the early years of his career.

''I love bowling fast but I play much more of a role in thinking a batsman out now. Glenn (McGrath) has been a brilliant mentor like that,'' he added.

Lee has been leading the Aussie attack after McGrath took a sabbatical to be with his ailing wife earlier this year and the express bowler says the responsibilty, coupled with his marriage in June, has helped him mature.

''Any person who's had the chance to play a series for Australia knows it's special but this is a huge challenge for me. Bring it on.

I enjoyed being the spearhead the past Australian summer. I've enjoyed that extra responsibility and I want to make it my role to make a big impact in this series and in this Australian side,'' he said.

The tearaway pacer, who turned 30 last week, said far from being worried about his age, he was looking to acheive his best as he matures.

''I feel the past couple of seasons have been the best since I've started. I'm 30, so I'm coming into the mature age for a fast bowler, that's when they reckon you hit your peak,'' he said.

Rating the Ashes at par with playing in a World Cup final, Lee said he was looking to improve his record against the English in the much anticipated series starting November 23.

''Compared to other opponents, my record (against England) is not as good and I know for Australia to regain the Ashes, I need to make sure I take wickets and get some runs. The main thing is I've improved with each Ashes series,'' he elaborated.

UNI XC PM PDS BS1547