Melbourne, July 24 - Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has ruled out his comeback in the third Ashes Test against England next week, reducing the pressure on Mitchell Johnson to retain his place.

Lee fears that if he rushes back to try to help Australia level the series and breaks down again, he could ruin the team's Ashes campaign and his tour.

If he were available, the experienced Lee could have forced his way back into the side at the expense of Johnson, who has been Australia's worst bowler in the two Tests.

'I'd be lying if I said I was available for the third Test because it's going to be very, very tight,' Lee was quoted as saying in the Australian.

'I don't want to put the team in jeopardy because there is a chance something might happen.

'It's not a great outcome if I'm out there bowling and I tear it again.