Worcestershire pace bowler Adam Finch is bowling again following his back problem and is targeting a return to action in Australia at the start of the New Year.
Finch missed the finale to a campaign in which he played an important role with 28 wickets in seven County Championship matches, including two five-fors.
But he returned to the nets at Malvern last week under the supervision of Assistant Coach, and fellow former pace bowler, Richard Jones.
The plan is for him to return and play for Sturt CC in Adelaide for a two month period.
Head Coach Alan Richardson confirmed: “Adam is progressing nicely. He had his first bowl on Wednesday with Richard Jones.
“He is doing well. We’ve been really cautious with Adam because there is absolutely nothing for him to race back for.
“But he’s going away to Adelaide again at the start of the New Year to play grade cricket so it is important for us to get him back up to speed.
“That was just a starting point on Wednesday. He is progressing well. He has done loads of physical work anyway.
“He will have a five week block of training now leading into him going away to Adelaide.”
Richardson also expects all-rounder Matthew Waite (groin) and Club Captain Brett D’Oliveira (shoulder) to be fit for the start of next season.
He said: “With Matthew, again taking our time. There is no rush. He has been on his honeymoon as well, a belated one for him.
“Again, it will be a winter where he will get himself back into a good space ready for the start of next season.
“We missed Matthew at the end of the season and obviously Brett played with a major injury, which was a magnificent effort.
“They will both be fit for the start of the season. Whilst it will be a long hard winter for them, doing their rehab and getting fit for the start of the season, they shouldn’t miss too much cricket.”
