Cricket: Powell raring to make most of fresh start

Apr 23 2008 by Phil Blanche, South Wales Echo

GLAMORGAN batsman Mike Powell starts the new season insisting he is as fit as ever.

Powell feared he would never play again after he suffered a blood clot in his arm last summer.

The 31-year-old ended up in intensive care at Exeter Hospital after serious complications set in.

But 10 months on Powell said: “I’m pleased to report I’m probably the fittest I’ve ever been as a professional cricketer.

“I have the lowest body fat index of the whole Glamorgan squad and I’m in the top 10 per cent when it comes to bleep tests.

“I’ve come a long way from not knowing whether I could carry on being a professional cricketer.”

Powell returned to the nets over the winter and built up his strength on a pre-season practice trip to India.

“I made 45 in a two-hour stay in the middle at Oxford last week and it was great to be back,” said Powell.

“Like the rest of the boys I can’t wait to get the season started. There is a good buzz around the place and everyone is looking forward to an improved season after a disappointing couple of years.”