Ashley Cowan to miss the 2003 season

Essex fast bowler Ashley Cowan will miss the whole of the 2003 season after having surgery on his right knee. He was forced to restrict the majority of his appearances in 2002 to one-day cricket due to continuing problems with an arthritic condition.

Essex Chief Executive David East commented:
"Ashley has undergone a grafting treatment on his knee. The operation was conducted in stages, but the final surgery was delayed until January so that all other options could be considered. He has been advised by his consultants not to play during 2003 as the graft will take time to settle down, although it is hoped that he will be fit for the start of the 2004 season. There is no question that Ashley will be missed, but it is essential that we give him the best chance of extending his career with this revolutionary new treatment."