English praises Saltire medics as he nears return

ALL-ROUNDER Cedric English today paid tribute to the Saltires cricket medics who have put him back in the frame to resume his representative career when Surrey Lions visit the citylets Grange ground in the totesport league tomorrow.

The 31-year-old will undergo a series of late fitness tests on a damaged hamstring which could determine whether he plays his 27th game for the Scots, having qualified on residency after arriving from his native South Africa.

English said: "When I suffered the injury as part of my bowling action it was a real shock because all previous damage had occurred while running.

"So, for me, it was incredibly frustrating to find myself sidelined just one match into Carlton’s league campaign but the medics have helped pull me through quickly.

"There were signs of some progress from the Saltires’ last time out against Somerset while, on the club front, there was an outstanding Coronel Scottish Cup win at Ayr last weekend. That means there is an enormous amount to look forward to."

The solid middle-order bat and aggressive strike bowler added: "I have undertaken fielding and bowling drills earlier this week and I have suffered no ill-effects.

"So the chances are high that I’ll be available to take my place in the squad of 14."