WORCESTERSHIRE'S star overseas player Shane Lee is returning home to Australia because of a knee injury.

He suffered the setback in the county'sfloodlit Norwich Union League Division One clash against Warwickshire at Edgbaston last week.

All-rounder Lee's injury has caused his knee to become unstable and it will require several weeks of intensive treatment before he is able to train and play again.

Both the County and the 29-year-old have agreed he should return home for treatment so he can gain full fitness before the start of the Australian season.

England Cricket Board regulations do not allow for a replacement at this stage of the season so Worcestershire will play their remaining games without an overseas player.

New Road director of cricket Tom Moody said today: "We are at the business end of the season and every game is vital.

"We will miss Shane's ability with both bat and ball, but I am confident that the strength we have in the squad will see us through."

Lee said: "I'm disappointed to be re-turning home so soon, but I appreciate the club's understanding of the situation."