New finger injury scare for Hameed
THE start of the domestic season provided a headache for England yesterday when Haseeb Hameed suffered another finger injury. Hameed, the discovery of a disappointing winter, was forced to retire hurt after scoring just seven for Lancashire against Cambridge University at Fenner’s when he was struck by Sussex second-team bowler Tim Moses. The opener went to hospital for a scan on the left hand that caused him so many problems in India during his debut Test series and Lancashire said he would be assessed overnight. It is a worry for Hameed, who had a metal pin inserted in the little finger of his left hand after it was broken in England’s 4-0 defeat. The 20-year-old returned to action for England Lions in Sri Lanka, with modest results, but was then forced to have another operation for sinus problems, causing him to miss the season opener for MCC against Middlesex in Abu Dhabi. Any injury to the same finger would be a big concern for Hameed, who scored 82 on his Test debut in Rajkot and then an unbeaten 59 with a broken digit in Mohali that underlined his rich potential, bravery and maturity. But at least he will have plenty of time to recover if the finger is broken again as England do not play their first Test of the summer until they meet South Africa at Lord’s in early July. There was much more positive news at the Ageas Bowl where former England opener Michael Carberry hit a century on his return to action for Hampshire against Cardiff University after treatment for cancer. Carberry, who was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour last July, hit 100 off 121 balls and departed to a standing ovation from a home crowd who fully appreciated his return from a second battle against serious health issues. The 36-year-old, who overcame kidney problems five years ago to resume his international career, missed the second half of last season. He said: ‘There is still a long way to go before I’m fully recovered. But the support from the cricket family has helped massively in getting me back playing and I’m looking forward to another great summer.’