REED UP FOR LONG SPELLS

GEELONG speedster Jake Reed is preparing to release the shackles as he bids to force his way back in the Victorian team.

Fresh from a three-wicket performance in Victoria’s recent Futures League match, Reed said he would be free to play without constraints after today’s clash against St Kilda following two years of injury setbacks.

Reed will take the new ball against the Saints today but has been ruled out of tomorrow’s clash against Monash Tigers as Victoria continues to monitor his progress.

“I’ve been told by the fitness staff that this is the last week of restrictions, so I’m pretty excited about that. From this weekend forward I’ll be able to play any game I want,” Reed said yesterday.

“Obviously I’d rather play both games and get a win, but I can see where the fitness staff are coming from after having my biggest week on the field for two-and-a-half years.

“They’re going to be a bit wary of my workloads on the weekend. I’m just happy to be pulling on the Geelong jumper again. It’s been a bloody long time and I’m looking forward to get out there with my good mates, having fun and hopefully getting a win.”

Reed was impressive for the Vics’ second XI at Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide, taking 3-97 from 27 overs. But Victoria was well beaten by the Redbacks.

“It was all over early on the fourth day,” Reed said. “It was disappointing, but I was pretty happy. I bowled 27 overs and that’s the most I’ve bowled in an innings in twoand-a-half years.

“I can only be happy with that. It was my first Futures League game in two years, so I was just happy to get through, pull up well and now I’m just looking forward to playing for Geelong.”