Corey on comeback trail
Corey Anderson is ‘‘bloody excited’’ to make his return to competitive cricket next week, playing for Northern Districts A in Taupo.
The Black Caps all-rounder had back surgery last year which he hopes will put an end to ongoing injury woes that have stunted his promising career.
Christchurch orthopedic surgeon Grahame Inglis inserted 10cm of titanium cable and some screws into Anderson’s spine, repairing a fracture.
Northern Districts A coach Stephen Cunis said Anderson was ‘‘bloody excited to be back’’ playing cricket, and was confident he could last a three-day match.
‘‘The big thing is it’s a threeday game,’’ Cunis said. ‘‘We wanted to make sure he was comfortable to playing that length of time, and he is confident and happy.
‘‘He’ll be batting and bowling.
He’ll be on bowling loads, obviously, but yes, he’ll be doing everything that’s required him.’’
Cunis said Anderson has been involved with Northern Knights training for some time, but this will be his first game action since surgery.
‘‘He’s got a lot of experience which will help him ... coming back from injury.
‘‘I’m really excited for him. We are excited to see what he of can do.’’
Anderson’s last competitive action was on July 30, 2017, when he played for Somerset in a Twenty20 clash against Sussex.
The month previous he represented New Zealand in the Champions Trophy, playing Bangladesh, England and Australia.
While his chances at international cricket this summer are slim to none, his return to fitness could provide competition for places for the likes of Colin de Grandhomme as New Zealand turn their focus to the 2019 World Cup in England.
Anderson has 683 test runs at 32.52, including one century, and 16 test wickets at 41.18. He has been most missed in white ball cricket, where he has regularly performed with both bat and ball.
Monday’s three-day game against Auckland A in Taupo also features Northern Districts Plunket Shield regulars James Baker and Bharat Popli.