Lee became the fastest bowler to claim 300 wickets in ODIs when he reached the milestone in his 171st match, against West Indies - 15 games earlier than previous record holder Pakistani legend Waqar Younis.

And Richards feels the Aussie has proved himself enough to be placed alongside the Windies greats.

"I think he's certainly up there with those guys (Marshall, Holding, Garner and Ambrose)," Richards was quoted as saying by the Australian Associated Press.

"I think it is hard to assess what took place from then to now ... but I think when he's called upon to do it, he's just as good as any," he added.

Impressed with the 31-year-old pace spearhead's consistency, Richards said he was amazed by the fitness levels maintained by Lee.