Worcestershire pace bowler Joe Leach has begun his rehab work after undergoing knee surgery.
Leach had an operation last month and is now focusing on returning to full fitness as soon as possible.
The 33-year-old, in his testimonial year at New Road, clocked up his 450th first class wicket last summer.
Head Coach Alan Richardson said: “Joe went to see the specialist last week and he is making really nice progress and it is something that was expected.
“He has been really diligent already. Knowing Joe, and the character he is, he will be desperate to get out there and play.
“He will be doing everything he can in his powers to give him the best opportunity to be fit and be back in the mix and soon as he can.
“Really unfortunate but, if anyone is going to get injured, I’d rather they do it in the winter rather than the middle of the season.
“Joe has been looked after really well by our science and medicine team, led by Andy Powell, and I know Joe will challenge himself and push himself as much as he can to give himself the best opportunity.”
Leach has finished as Worcestershire’s leading wicket-taker on six occasions and has signed a contract extension until the end of the 2025 season.
