Sydney, Feb.5 : Australian pace spearhead Brett Lee believes that the relentless pressure surrounding international cricket players to not only perform, but also to excel in their chosen skill, could claim further high-profile casualties.

Lee warned that incessant cricket and increased expectations, besides being subjected to intense media scrutiny, could create unbearable burdens on cricketers struggling for form.

Empathising with fast bowler Shaun Tait's plight, Fox Sports quoted Lee as saying: "It's very hard because there is a lot of pressure on cricketers around the world these days, we are playing a lot more cricket."

"We are also under a lot more scrutiny through the media, especially if you are not taking wickets or scoring runs. Taity is going through a bit of a tough time at the moment, but it's up to us as mates to make sure we are calling him and make sure he is in a good place. He needs some time away from the game and we hope to see him back shortly," he added.

Cricket Australia and the South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) have also said that they will do all they can to ensure Tait's recovery.

Tait will retain his lucrative CA deal while tackling his stress-related condition.

"SACA is incredibly proud and supportive of Shaun and is working with CA, Shaun's management and his doctors to ensure we do everything possible to be a part of the support he needs to see him return to full health - we are not attaching time frames to this process," said SACA chief executive Mike Deare.

Batsman Mike Hussey, who suffered from despair when he was dropped from the Western Australia team several years ago, said: "I don't know what it was like back in other eras, but it's very tough and it's a lot tougher than people think."

Australian players are insisting they did not see any signals that Tait was struggling before he withdrew from cricket.

ANI