New Zealand Injured Pair Given More Time (4 Oct 1996)

4 October 1996

Injured Pair Given More Time

A decision on the fitness of New Zealand cricketers Danny Morrison and Blair Pocock for the tour to Sharjah and Pakistan next month has been delayed until the team`s next training camp.

New coach Steve Rixon said opening batsman Pocock, who has a damaged shoulder, was still restricted in his ability to throw the ball. His shoulder was scanned yesterday.

Strike bowler Morrison is making good progress in his recovery from a groin operation in mid-winter and Rixon is pleased with his progress.

"Danny looked comfortable in the field in the match two days ago and came through the fitness test this morning without difficulty."

A decision on the pair will not be made until the team gathers in Christchurch from October 14-18.

In the meantime, stand-by players Bryan Young, Mark Bailey, and Robert Kennedy will remain with the team at the second and final camp before the team leaves New Zealand on October 23.

Over all Rixon, the Australian who was appointed ahead of Glenn Turner in July, was pleased with the progress the team has been making toward the tour.

"About 75 per cent of the players are where I would expect them to be at this stage and the other 25 per cent I have no doubt will make further progress at the next camp and in the warm-up matches in Australia," Rixon said.

Source :: The Press (https://www.press.co.nz)