Yorkshire paceman Moin Ashraf is targeting a return to action before next month’s pre-season tour of Abu Dhabi after a side strain sidelined him for four weeks.
The 23-year-old sustained the problem while playing Australian grade cricket for East Torrens and has now returned home.
Bradford-born Ashraf, troubled by injuries over the last couple of seasons, had showed signs he was returning to form for the Adelaide outfit, taking 23 wickets in eight matches at an average of 9.70.
He will now start an intense rehabilitation programme at Headingley to ensure he makes the plane for the United Arab Emirates, where Yorkshire will take part in the Emirates T20 tournament before playing Marylebone Cricket Club in the Champion County contest.
It's sad and upsetting that my stay in Adelaide has come to a sudden end due to a torn oblique but… http://t.co/ldej0ATAay
— Moin Ashraf (@MoinA23) January 25, 2015
“I’m gutted to be honest,” said Ashraf. “I was in good form in Australia and building momentum before the injury setback.
“I felt I was getting my rhythm back from a couple of years ago and bowling with control and good pace.
“I will be working hard with our medical team at Yorkshire to get fit and ready for the pre-season tour. I want to make an impact this year in all formats and I am genuinely excited about the new season.
“Playing in Adelaide was fantastic. The club where I played, East Torrens, made me feel very welcome and I have made some strong connections over there. Hopefully, I’ll get the opportunity to return in the future.”