Australian Matt Nicholson is confident of returning to boost Surrey’s attack as early as next week.

The Sydney-born paceman was forced to sit out last week’s LV County Championship encounter against Durham at Guildford because of a knee injury.

But the 33-year-old, who has played just eight first-class matches this season, is on track for an imminent comeback.

And with long-term absentee Mark Butcher also making good progress in his battle to overcome injury things are starting to look up for the Brown Caps.

Nicholson was forced to spend a spell on the sidelines after sustaining ligament damage to his left knee, caused by general wear and tear.

But he underwent an ultrasound and had an injection to reduce the swelling last Friday and is now reported to be responding well to treatment.

The hope is that he can force his way back into the plans of Surrey Cricket Manager Alan Butcher in time for the upcoming LV County Championship division one match, against Yorkshire, which starts next Wednesday at Headingley.

His importance to the team was underlined back in May when he struck 133 against Yorkshire in the drawn Championship fixture at the Brit Oval and picked up the important wicket of Andrew Gale for 150.

Nicholson’s knock supplemented a fine double hundred from skipper Butcher, who is still undergoing rehabilitation on his troublesome knee.

The former England international is now back in the gym and, although not quite ready for the Tour de France, is working hard on a cycling programme.

The signs remain good that he will be able to force his way back into the reckoning soon although a date for his return has still to be set.

Add to Del.icio.us Digg it share on Facebook (What is this?)

• Get the Surrey CCC County Mens Shirt