Mcdonald Shoulder Is Worry For Vics

The Age

Friday October 12, 2007

Karen Lyon

VICTORIAN selectors have taken a punt on all-rounder Andrew McDonald, selecting him for the first clash of the Pura Cup season against South Australia, even though he hurt his recently reconstructed right shoulder at training earlier in the week.

On the eve of the opening round, Bushrangers coach Greg Shipperd has suggested McDonald could play the season exclusively as a batsman if his shoulder does not improve.

After enjoying his best season last year, McDonald was forced to have his right shoulder reconstructed over the winter break. He tweaked the shoulder during bowling practice on Monday, but Shipperd is prepared to take a gamble on the 26-year-old.

"It's a real shame for Andrew at the moment. We are still trying to wind our way through the medical mysteries of a shoulder reconstruction and he has been meticulous in his rehabilitation. We couldn't have asked any more of him.

"Unfortunately, (during) a bowling episode on Monday, something has come astray from a bowling point of view," said Shipperd.

McDonald's selection means batsmen Aiden Blizzard was from the squad.

Shipperd believes the bowling line-up will be back to fitness this season, but with front-line bowlers Shane Harwood, Mick Lewis and Gerard Denton all over 30, the team will look to rotate the bowlers.

"We are really pleased that we have got some decisions to make with almost all of our fast bowlers being ready to play," said Shipperd.

Just six weeks after shifting from Tasmania to Victoria, teenage wicketkeeper Matthew Wade has been given his opportunity to debut in first-class cricket.

? South Australia v Victoria, Sunday-Wednesday, Adelaide Oval.

© 2007 The Age

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