AS PHILLIP HUGHES continued his run of low scores yesterday - this time via a run-out - Simon Katich was making a last-minute effort to return to the Test arena. Running for the first time since injuring an Achilles tendon, Katich trained strongly with his NSW teammates at Coogee Oval.
Katich spent half an hour taking part in fielding drills in a big step towards a possible return for the Sydney Test. He moved freely and ran without any apparent discomfort, before returning to the hands of the NSW team physiotherapist, who strapped and iced his ankle. While reluctant to talk about his possible inclusion in the Australian team, Katich was pleased with yesterday's training run.
''It's definitely improved,'' he said. ''Otherwise I wouldn't be here. The fact it's getting better is a good sign.''
As NSW continue their preparations for the Twenty20 Big Bash competition, Katich will play in an internal 20-over match at Drummoyne Oval tomorrow. The practice match is shaping as crucial in Katich's attempt to regain his place in time for the Sydney Test, starting Monday.
Another recent Australian representative, Nathan Hauritz, is enjoying his return to domestic cricket this season. Dropped before the start of the Ashes series, the off-spinner has been in terrific form for NSW, taking 19 wickets and plundering 332 runs from six matches in the Sheffield Shield. But he is not expecting a late recall to the Australian team.
''Michael Beer hasn't played a Test and he's been in the 12 for the last two [Tests],'' Hauritz said.
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