Kevin Pietersen believes England's chances of winning the first Ashes Test have been boosted by an injury to Australia seamer Brett Lee.

The fast bowler is a serious doubt for the first Test in Cardiff after suffering a rib injury.

Lee, one of the survivors of the 2005 Ashes defeat here, reported soreness to the left side of his ribs after the draw with England Lions.

The 32-year-old was due to undergo a scan today and his participation on Wednesday is now in question.