'Richly deserved': Brett Lee inducted into Cricket Australia's Hall of Fame after glittering career

Brett Lee, one of the best and most feared fast bowlers in history, has been unveiled as the latest inductee into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame.

The 49-year-old is one of the most beloved cricketers of his generation, calling time on his 20-year career with over 700 wickets to his name across all international formats.

His statement first over at the MCG at the age of 23 announced him on the world stage, taking five wickets in his first innings at the Boxing Day Test against India.

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Lee was called into a bowling attack featuring Australian greats Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne in that Test as he tore through the Indian batting order.

That moment was the beginning of one of the brightest careers by an Australian player, competing in 76 Test matches, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is.

He finished with 310 Test wickets at an average of just over 30, while cementing himself as one of Australia's best white-ball bowlers with 380 ODI scalps at 23.

Lee called time on the sport in 2015 and has remained one of just five bowlers to have ever cracked the infamous 160km/h mark against the world's best.

He now adds a Hall of Fame honour to his list of achievements, which includes three ICC Cricket World Cup titles and multiple Ashes series wins.

He also won the Allan Border Medal and Australian Test Player of the Year in 2008.

Hall of Fame chairman Peter King said the induction was "richly deserved".

"He was not only one of the fastest and most exciting bowlers the world has seen, but also an outstanding ambassador for Australian cricket," King said in a statement.

"Brett's impact transcended statistics — he inspired fans around the world with the way he played the game, the respect he showed opponents, and the pride he took in representing his country.

"Now a respected commentator, Lee continues to contribute to the game and its communities globally long after his final delivery.

"The Australian Cricket Hall of Fame celebrates players whose careers have left a lasting legacy on the sport."

Michael Clarke, Christina Matthews and Michael Bevan were inducted into the Hall of Fame earlier this year, making Lee the 67th player to receive the honour.