Nasser Hussain will return to first-team action on Sunday when Essex take onWorcestershire in the National League

CricInfo10-Aug-2001Nasser Hussain will return to first-team action on Sunday when Essex take onWorcestershire in the National League.Today he continued his recovery from a broken finger with an aggressive 78for Essex’s Second XI against Nottinghamshire at Halstead.Resuming at 51 not out this morning, Hussain was in good form during his 80-minute stay at the crease before being caught at backward point.He said: “I’ve been delighted with the way the injury has healed.”There have been no problems at all when batting – although I will probablykeep the finger strapped because it still feels slightly sore when I’m fielding.Apart from that everything is fine.”I was hitting the ball powerfully today and felt no reaction and I’ll beplaying for Essex in our National League match against Worcestershire onSunday.”Following that I’m anticipating a return to the England set-up next week. Weare having a pre-selection meeting later today and I’ll be confirming myintention to play.”He added: “In an ideal world I would have liked the opportunity to play in aChampionship match, but that’s not an option.”To return to Test cricket with just one second XI game and one NationalLeague match is hardly the ideal preparation, but I’m desperate to return to theEngland scene.”I’m really looking forward to meeting up with the boys again and pulling onan England sweater.”The squad for the Fourth and Fifth Ashes Tests will be announced on Sunday.