Cricket Comeback Turns Sour for Former Test Star
Former Australian Test batsman Greg Blewett's highly anticipated return to cricket has ended in disaster after just one match. The 54-year-old suffered a suspected ruptured Achilles tendon during his first game of cricket in a decade, cutting short what was meant to be a triumphant comeback.
Disastrous Return After Decade-Long Hiatus
Blewett had signed up with Melbourne's Berwick Springs cricket club for a T20 match on Sunday, marking his return to the sport after ten years away. Unfortunately, the veteran batsman didn't even face a single ball before the injury occurred, leaving him devastated and requiring immediate medical attention.
In a candid social media update, Blewett showed off his moon boot while delivering the disappointing news. "Hey folks. Came out of retirement today, haven't played for 10 years. How did it go? Not great," the former cricketer confessed to his followers.
The 54-year-old revealed he was scheduled for scans the following day, but already suspected the worst. "I'm thinking ruptured Achilles. So yeah, no good," he admitted, displaying the characteristic dry humour that made him a fan favourite during his playing days.
Recovery Road Ahead and Professional Commitments
Despite the setback, Blewett maintained a positive outlook about his recovery journey. "Anyway I'm sure the recovery's going to be a pain in the arse but that is the update from Melbourne," he shared. The former batsman planned to fly home and immediately begin rehabilitation, acknowledging "I'm going to be a slow and sore boy for a little bit."
The timing presents additional challenges for Blewett, who is due to join Channel 7's commentary team for the upcoming Ashes series and Big Bash League this summer. His broadcasting role remains unaffected by the injury, though his mobility during ground reporting may be temporarily limited.
Speaking before his ill-fated comeback, Blewett explained how the opportunity emerged from "a phone call out of the blue" from Berwick Springs. Despite his lengthy absence from the game, he embraced the challenge with his trademark enthusiasm: "It's been a while since I've played but I thought why not."
The former Test star had entered the day with the simple motto "keep it simple, stupid" and planned to employ his famous pull shot against any short deliveries. His pre-match comments about ensuring he warmed up properly in the cold conditions proved strangely prophetic given what transpired.
Blewett's injury serves as a reminder of the physical demands of cricket, even for experienced professionals, and highlights the challenges facing athletes attempting comebacks later in life.
