Ashley Cowan will be on the comeback trail when Essex take on New Zealand in a one-day battle at Chelmsford today.
The 29-year-old strike bowler has not featured in the first team since turning out in the National League game against Glamorgan at Cardiff a month ago and is relishing the chance of stepping back into the limelight (2.30pm start).
"It's been a frustrating time," admitted the player who has not appeared in a Championship game for one-and-a-half seasons following major knee surgery.
"But the knee isn't posing any problems at the moment and I came through a Second XI match last week without trouble. Now I'm hopeful I'll be fit enough for Championship action next week if required."
That would be a welcome boost for Essex at a time when they will be without Darren Gough who has linked up with England's one-day squad and will be missing for the next few games.
Vice-captain Paul Grayson, another player who has been striving for form and fitness following a major knee operation, will also play against the tourists.
It is understood there is an outside chance that Tony Palladino may also feature.
Published Friday June 18, 2004
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