‘Warrior’ Ali times return to perfection

PAKISTAN pace bowler Hassan Ali makes a welcome return to Warwickshire’s squad for the Vitality County Championship trip to Hampshire.

Ali’s return to Edgbaston – which he refers to as his “second home” – was delayed following changes in the hierarchy at the Pakistan Cricket Board and an extended training camp.

But the 29-year-old – who took 24 red-ball wickets in seven matches for the Bears last season – is in line to make his comeback at Southampton’s Utilita Bowl.

It’s a timely return for firstteam coach Mark Robinson who was dealt another bowling blow this week with news that Chris Rushworth will be sidelined for several weeks with a pulled calf. Robinson said: “It’s great to have Hassan back in the dressing room. He’s been working with Stu Barnes (bowling coach) as he’s not had a red ball in his hand for a while. So we’re getting him back up to speed with bat and ball.

“He’s a warrior. We know he’ll charge in and make an impact in this game and others as the season develops.

“He’ll replace Chris Rushworth, who had to withdraw from the Durham game last week with a tight calf and we now know he’s going to miss a few weeks. It’s a bitter pill to swallow so soon after losing Liam Norwell and Michael Booth to injury. But that’s sport – you have to roll with it.

“Having Hassan back is a huge boost and we’re awaiting international clearance on a second overseas signing. So we’re working hard behind the scenes to solve problems.

“The squad is in good spirits, we played some good cricket in the last match and we’re looking forward to testing ourselves against Hampshire.”

The Utilita Bowl (formerly Rose Bowl) was the scene of a standout County Championship success for Warwickshire last season as a devastating 13-over spell from Rushworth, in which he claimed seven wickets for 38 runs, sealed an innings victory.

Robinson knows Hampshire will provide a stern test, while his batters will also have to readjust to facing the traditional Dukes ball.

“They’ll be out for revenge after last season,” he added.”