AUSTRALIA’S players were attempting to refocus on the World Twenty20 in the aftermath of controversial allrounder Andrew Symonds being sent home.

Symonds, 33, is flying back to Australia following an alcohol- related incident which looks to have brought an end to his international career.

Fast bowler Brett Lee admits his absence will be a big blow to the Aussies’ chances of success over the next three weeks, but urged his teammates 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.

‘‘We are here to focus on cricket, what’s happened with Andrew is a very personal blow to him but as mates we’ll be sticking by him and making sure we give him our best advice and the help he needs.’’ Symonds’ indiscretion is the latest in a very long series of controversies which have dogged his career, and his chances of ever turning out for the international side again appear bleak.

But Lee is hopeful world cricket has not seen the last of the explosive batsman in the green and gold.

‘‘To lose a player of his calibre leaves a big hole in the team but hopefully he will be back shortly,’’ added Lee. ‘‘I’m disappointed he’s flying home. As his team-mates we will be trying our hardest to make sure he gets back in the Australian cricket team at some stage.’’ Australia called up Cameron White as replacement last night. The leg-spinning all-rounder has played seven Twenty20 and 28 oneday internationals for Australia.

Symonds in discipline is the latest in a string of career indiscretions, including being banned for two matches during the 2005 Ashes tour for turning up for a one-day international against Bangladesh in Cardiff inebriated.