Fast bowler Ryan Harris is resigned to missing Australia’s first Test against South Africa in Brisbane as he recovers from shoulder surgery.
Harris underwent an operation two months ago and the 32-year-old has resumed light bowling work in the nets but is unlikely to be back to full speed for the Gabba Test starting on November 9.
It could mean Harris sits out the entire series against the Proteas if Peter Siddle, Ben Hilfenhaus and young guns Mitchell Starc, James Pattinson and Pat Cummins fire.
The three-Test series against South Africa will be a battle for the world No.1 ranking.
Given his history of knee and foot injuries, Harris won’t risk a rushed return just to win a spot in the first Test but he’s hopeful of getting back to his best soon.
“My shoulder is coming along well and hopefully it won’t be too long before I am back at full pace,” Harris said.
Harris has been playing grade cricket for club side Toombul as a batsman but will not be considered when Queensland’s side for their Sheffield Shield opener is named on Tuesday.
The Bulls begin their Shield defence against South Australia at the Gabba from October 1.