Tuesday, June 14th, 2022

PLAYER UPDATE ON JOE LEACH, JOSH DELL, JOSH TONGUE AND BEN COX

Worcestershire are hoping all-rounder Joe Leach will be available to return to first-team action for the next LV=Insurance County Championship match with Glamorgan at New Road beginning on Sunday, June 26.

Leach is continuing his return to play programme after suffering a back problem last month ahead of the Championship match with Derbyshire at the Incora County Ground.

He bowled eight overs yesterday in two spells for the 2nd XI on day one of the Championship fixture with Leicestershire at Barnt Green.

There is also encouraging news about the progress of opening batter Josh Dell and pace bowler Josh Tongue.

Dell is still recovering from a broken finger suffered during pre-season but is hoping to return to action soon.

Tongue has started to return to bowling after a lengthy shoulder setback.

But he needs to undergo an extensive fitness and strength programme before any return to play dates can be considered.

Wicket keeper-batter and Rapids Vitality Blast vice-captain Ben Cox is having a short break from playing for mental health reasons.

Gareth Roderick has taken over behind the stumps for the current County Championship match with Durham at the Seat Unique Riverside.