Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee has rejected long-standing speculation that he was once romantically involved with Bollywood actor and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta. Addressing the rumours directly, Lee said the two had always shared a friendship and that their relationship was never romantic.

Lee became closely associated with Preity after joining Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings, for the inaugural Indian Premier League season in 2008. He represented the franchise until 2010 before moving to Kolkata Knight Riders in 2011. Their professional association prompted repeated media speculation about a possible relationship.

Speaking to Bombay Times, Lee said Preity was and remained a great friend. He described her as an intelligent woman for whom he had considerable respect, noting that she was one of the leading figures behind the Punjab franchise during his time with the team. The former pacer said the speculation never troubled him because he knew the truth.

Preity had previously dismissed the rumours in 2010, describing the recurring reports linking her with Lee as outdated. She clarified at the time that they were friends and had never shared a romantic relationship. Lee’s latest comments support her earlier response and provide his first direct public clarification of the speculation.

Lee married Elizabeth Kemp in 2006, and the couple had a son before separating two years later. Their divorce was finalised in 2009. The former Australian international married Lana Anderson in 2014, and they have two children. Since retiring from professional cricket, Lee has remained involved in the sport through commentary and other media roles.

Preity, meanwhile, continues to serve as a co-owner of Punjab Kings and regularly supports the franchise during its IPL matches. Although she has appeared less frequently in films in recent years, she is reportedly working on “Batwara 1947,” featuring Sunny Deol in a leading role and scheduled for theatrical release on August 14.