Clark recovery ahead of schedule

Stuart Clark, a contender for the third fast-bowling spot in next month's first Ashes Test, is planning on a return from injury for New South Wales later this month. Clark was almost certain of a place in the side before tearing a quadricep playing club cricket a fortnight ago, which ruled him out of the Champions Trophy.

But he is looking to play in the Pura Cup game against Queensland at the Gabba on October 27 in a bid to prove his fitness for the Ashes. Clark, 31, was told by team doctors he faced up to six weeks on the sidelines, leaving him with possibly only a three-day tour match against England to press his claims.

However, Clark said his injury had responded well to treatment and he could return early. "I started jogging yesterday and I did a little bit of running today," Clark told The Australian. "Depending on what the physio says, I may try to have a light bowl this weekend and see what happens. It's very good news for me and I'm really looking forward to playing cricket again."

Clark faces competition for the spot behind Glenn McGrath and Brett Lee from his New South Wales team-mate Nathan Bracken, Queensland's Mitchell Johnson and the South Australian Shaun Tait.