Hall hopeful of quick return

South Africa's allrounder, Andrew Hall, is hoping to return to action for Worcestershire next week following a back spasm.

Hall suffered the injury during last Sunday's National League match against Durham, breaking down after bowling just two overs. Scans to determine the extent of the injury were inconclusive.

But Hall said: "I spoke to my specialist back home and he is very comfortable with the situation. It is a relief to me. I am upright and running and with one or two more good days rest and stretching, I should be back to normal."

"I am confident I will be playing soon," he added. "I am hoping the Warwickshire game is the target, but we will have to see how it clears up over the next couple of days."

Hall has had back trouble before. He had surgery in the winter, and only recently returned to action in South Africa's new Pro20 competition before arriving back at New Road early in May. It has been agreed by Worcestershire and the United Cricket Board that Hall will be restricted to bowling a maximum of 15 overs per day.