Australian fast bowler Jason Gillespie has pulled out of the forthcoming limited-overs matches against India in order to save himself for the Ashes series against England.

The Australian Cricket Board (ACB) said Gillespie was not injured but would be sent home early to prevent any chance of aggravating his hamstring.

The South Australian missed Australia's domestic one-day series in January because of a hamstring injury.

While he was able to play in each of the three Tests against India, the Australian team management do not want to risk him ahead of this summer's visit to England.

He will be replaced in India by Shane Lee, the elder brother of paceman Brett Lee, who is due to arrive on Sunday.

Safety-first

"It was felt that it would be in the best interest of both Jason and Australian cricket if he were to head home now", said Australian team physiotherapist Errol Alcott.

"That means he can rest ahead of a potentially gruelling tour of the UK, including a maximum of seven one-day internationals and an Ashes series of five tests."

Gillespie, who took 15 wickets in India, said: "I don't believe I've got any serious problems and I could have played, but we've decided on a safety-first approach to make sure I'm alright for the Ashes tour."