Cricket: Lee could be a killer, warns Parore

Former New Zealand cricketer Adam Parore fears Australian fast bowler Brett Lee could kill a batsman unless measures are introduced to stop "beam balls".

Former wicketkeeper Parore told the Adelaide Advertiser newspaper he did not feel Lee tried to purposely hurt New Zealand's Brendon McCullum with a chest-high full toss in the penultimate over of Wednesday's two-run win against the Black Caps, but enough was enough.

While bouncers were considered a key part of cricket, beamers were not tolerated because they were unexpected and dangerous .

"I don't think he is doing it deliberately but he probably needs the ropes put on him," Parore said.

"It's a bit too regular.

"If he was unlucky, there is a very real possibility he could kill someone.

"If he gets through the (helmet) visor, he'll probably kill someone.

"I am bloody sure he wouldn't want to live with that."

The Black Caps feel Lee has now bowled five beamers to their batsmen in the past year, with McCullum on the receiving end three times.

Parore, who retired in 2002, said bowlers should be given one warning a series and be suspended if they infringe again.

"He doesn't need to bowl a flat one -- he scares the shit out of you with the other one (a bouncer)."

Parore's comments came after Lee flew home to Sydney yesterday and will miss tomorrow's final Chappell-Hadlee series match because of a blocked left nasal passage.

Lee and his management have declined comment but were reported to reject suggestions the bowler deliberately bowls full tosses.

Australia captain Ricky Ponting suggested greasy conditions at Wellington's Westpac Stadium on Wednesday made it difficult to grip the ball.

New Zealand captain Daniel Vettori said he felt the beamer had been an accident.

- NZPA