Australian pacer Billy Stanlake is determined to make a comeback to competitive cricket after missing the entire 2022-23 season due to a back injury. The injury, a stress fracture, had kept him out of action since May 2021. Stanlake’s road to recovery suffered another setback when he strained his hamstring during a training session, just a day after rejoining the Hobart Hurricanes squad.
Having already missed significant playing time due to a previous back injury sustained during his County Championship debut for Derbyshire, Stanlake faced a long rehabilitation period. However, the 28-year-old pacer remained resilient and managed to make his debut for the Tigers before the conclusion of the season.
Stanlake acknowledged that an eight-week rehabilitation period is more manageable compared to a ten-month recovery. He expressed satisfaction with the condition of his back and his overall physical fitness, having successfully played a couple of games towards the end of the previous season. The lack of cricket due to his injuries motivated him to prioritize returning to the game.
In an interview with cricket.com.au, Stanlake emphasized the importance of regaining match fitness and acclimatizing to high-intensity cricket. He saw the opportunity to play without excessive pressure as a way to get his body moving and prepare for a successful season with Tasmania.
After enduring months of training, Stanlake opted for a balanced approach to gradually reintegrate himself into the game. He recognized the need to avoid another extended period of training and appreciated the benefits of easing back into cricket.
With his determination and focus on regaining peak form, Stanlake is eager to hit the ground running and make a significant impact for Tasmania in the upcoming season.
