Shane Warne feels Brett Lee's recent marriage break up was affecting his performance in the ongoing Test series against India.

Warne while commiserating with Lee, who split from his wife Liz in August, said he was passing through the toughest time of his career but was confident that the speedster would bounce back.

"It's always very difficult. You've got to be pretty strong mentally to be able to perform on the field and then deal with your issues off the field on the personal side of things. It's the toughest thing you have to go through, really, in your life," Warne said.

"It's obviously a tough time to go through for anyone, let alone being in the public spotlight when you're out there trying to do the best you can for your country as well," Warne was quoted as saying by the 'Daily Telegraph'.

The form of Lee, who had little impact with the ball in the first two Tests, claiming four wickets at 59.25, would be crucial for Australia's fate in the remaining two Tests of the series with the third match starting in New Deli on Wednesday.

Warne himself had faced a similar situation during the 2005 Ashes after announcing that he was splitting with his the then-wife Simone. Inspite of the fact that his marriage was on the rocks, the leggie managed to produce a stand-out performance in that series.

"I struggled at times with it but I managed to keep my focus on the field and make 250 runs and take 40 wickets in 2005 and I'm pretty proud of that achievement even though we lost, which is a shame.

The leggie said he was always available, If Lee wanted any help.

"It is very difficult and I feel for him and I'm here if needed to chat about anything at any time. Just give us a ring," he said.

"He's bowling OK without much luck at the moment, I'm sure if he keeps bowling the way he is, it will turn around for him," he added.