Shaun Tait targets December comeback

Testing period

Tait, who claimed 23 wickets during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 hasn’t featured in a single ODI or Test match for his country since the Caribbean tournament in March-April.

He was named in Australia's 13-man squad for the first Test against Sri Lanka but was replaced by Ben Hilfenhaus when his injury troubles occurred. It continued a frustrating period for Tait, whose recovery has been much slower than expected following surgery on his right elbow in June.

"I am not sure when I will bowl but it might be the case I am ruled out of the first two Tests," said the 24-year old, who has been widely acclaimed as one of the fastest bowlers in the country.

"It's one of those things that I don't think anyone really knows. I will have to play it by ear. The first innings was okay in Tasmania. I bowled 27 overs and it was good to get them in. The second spell of the second innings it stared to get a bit sore."

Although scans showed there was no more damage to the elbow, Tait will not take any risks in his continued recovery. "I scar badly and am a slow healer," he said. "I won't be rushing back. There was such a big build-up so to miss the first Test is pretty frustrating."

Out of Test series

It looks highly unlikely that Tait would feature in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka. He would be a huge asset to the team against India, if he proves his fitness on time.

The express fast bowler is hoping to be ready for the three-match Chappell-Hadlee Trophy series that kicks off in Adelaide on December 14. He will have at most two Pura Cup games to prove his fitness before the New Zealand matches.