Lehmann fit for first Test
2004-11-16 10:32
Sydney - Australian batsman Darren Lehmann was declared fit on Tuesday after recovering from a hamstring injury and is clear to play in the first cricket Test against New Zealand in Brisbane.
Lehmann ran without difficulty during a fitness test at the Gabba, showing no ill affects from the torn hamstring which forced him out of the fourth and final Test of Australia's recent tour of India.
Watched by coach John Buchanan and team physiotherapist Errol Allcott, the veteran left-hander completed a series of sprints, close catching and fielding drills.
He also batted in the nets without problem.
His return to form removed the last hope of Simon Katich to return for Thursday's New Zealand Test after being dropped from the team which won a historic 3-1 Test series against India.
Lehmann arrived late at the Australian training camp in Brisbane on Monday night after testifying in a Melbourne court about events leading to the death of close friend and former Test cricketer David Hookes earlier this year.
A pub bouncer is facing trial on manslaughter charges over Hookes' death following a fight outside a Melbourne nightclub.
- AFP