Injured Kiwi batsman Ryder resumes training

Wellington, Dec 31 (ANI): New Zealand's talented opener Jesse Ryder has resumed training, but is still half way to declaring himself fully fit for a come back.

Ryder has been out since September 28 when he tore an abdominal muscle during an innings of 74 off 58 balls for New Zealand against Sri Lanka during the Champions Trophy in South Africa.

The troubled but immensely talented batsman spent 10 minutes in the nets doing some light fielding drills before leaving the two-hour practice halfway for a physiotherapist appointment.

No return date has been set for his comeback, though there is some talk he might strap the pads on for a Wellington A against England under-19 on January 7, Stuff.co.nz reports.

Wellington coach Anthony Stuart is preparing his team for the opening round of the HRV Cup (Twenty20) against Central Districts in New Plymouth on Sunday.

He is not factoring Ryder into his plans for the opening three rounds at least, maybe longer.

"It's good to see Jesse back at training but I've no idea when he is going to be available," Stuart said.

"We can't even consider him until New Zealand Cricket give us the green light and there is no indication that will be any time soon. Of course, it would be great to have him, but he needs to do a bit of work yet." (ANI)