The Ashes plans suffer a major blow since its fast bowler Brett Lee has been ruled out of the first cricket Test at Cardiff starting on Wednesday.

Lee, who was making a comeback from an ankle injury, strained his abdominal muscle during the practice game against England Lions and is also doubtful for the second Test in Lord's next week.

Lee was in great form in the practice game as he troubled the batsmen with his reverse swing to pick up 6-76 against England Lions and was also a strong contender to lead the pace attack.

"Playing for Australia is the most amazing thing, but the Ashes is what it is all about so I am very, very disappointed... but I will find a way to bounce back. Normally I would have played through it but with the long series I didn't want to jeopardize things for the team. I hope the guys can leave Cardiff 1-0 up," a dejected Lee said.

Australian team physiotherapist Alex Kountouris revealed that Lee had been feeling pain for several days.

"It could have been a lot worse. We'll monitor it over the next two weeks. He is not out of Lord's but his chances are slim," Kountouris said.

Lee hoped that he would be able to run in hard again in the next two days and Australia is not looking to call in a replacement at this stage.

With Lee ruled out, Ashes rookies Mitchell Johnson and Peter Siddle will have to shoulder a major burden.