Former Australian speedster Brett Lee has confirmed that he did, in fact, dabble in javelin throw during his younger years — a revelation that came after Indian Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra mentioned him as a potential natural in the sport. During an interview with JioStar, the official broadcaster of the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the two-time Olympic medalist was asked to name a cricketer who could have excelled in javelin.
Without hesitation, Neeraj Chopra named Brett Lee. “I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could’ve done really well, especially during his peak years,” said Chopra.
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Lee, never one to shy away from a compliment, responded on X (formerly Twitter), confirming his brief stint with javelin in school but humbly downplayed any comparison with the reigning Olympic hero. “I did throw the javelin back in my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does and continues to do,” Lee wrote. “Very tough on the elbow. I have, however, admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well.”
😂 I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does & continues to do.
Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well 🔥 🥇 https://t.co/fbbpKzd4bj— @BrettLee_58 (@BrettLee_58) June 30, 2025
Renowned for his express pace and ferocious bouncers, Brett Lee ended his Test career with 310 wickets in 76 matches — placing him fourth on Australia’s all-time list. He also scalped 380 wickets in ODIs and 28 in T20Is, establishing himself as one of the most lethal fast bowlers of his era.
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Chopra, meanwhile, expressed his curiosity about crossing paths with India’s pace ace Jasprit Bumrah — even suggesting a fun javelin session with him. “I’d love to try javelin with Jasprit Bumrah and maybe pick up a few bowling tips too,” he quipped.
The Neeraj Chopra Classic, postponed from May, is now scheduled for July 5 at Bengaluru’s Kanteerava Stadium, promising a grand showcase of Indian track and field talent.
