Symonds sent home

Australia all-rounder Andrew Symonds is to be sent home from the World Twenty20 tournament in England for disciplinary reasons.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland confirmed Symonds would play no part in the tournament, which begins on Friday. Australia play their first match on Saturday, when they take on West Indies.

The axing of Symonds follows a breach of team rules involving alcohol.

Following the World Twenty20, Australia will remain in England to contest the Ashes. Symonds had not been due to be involved beyond the end of the World Twenty20.

Sutherland said from Melbourne: "He will come home this (Thursday) evening. The decision has been made due to Andrew, over the last 24-48 hours, breaking a number of team rules.

"In isolation the breaches that I am talking about are not serious, but in the scheme of things, in the scheme of history, they are enough for it to be the final straw. I am disappointed in Andrew and also disappointed for Andrew."

Sutherland added: "It's alcohol related and other issues related to team rules. It's about Cricket Australia taking responsibility for its employees. We understand Andrew has had his share of issues and it's a constant balancing act, but it has tipped too far."

Australia's players are attempting to refocus on the competition in the aftermath a dramatic day. Fast bowler Brett Lee admits Symonds' absence will be a big blow to the Aussies' chances of success over the next three weeks, but urged his team-mates to concentrate on matters on the field.

"We have to move on. As his team-mates we are disappointed that Andrew is going home but we will try to find a way to fill that gap," said Lee. "He's a world-class player and to leave a gap like that is not great for the Australian team but we always find a way to fill a void."

The ICC confirmed on Thursday evening that Cameron White will replace Symonds. Leg-spinning all-rounder White has played seven Twenty20 and 28 one-day internationals for Australia.