Sussex fast bowler Paul Hutchison is on the comeback trail.

The 25-year-old left-armer was given the go-ahead yesterday to resume training after six frustrating weeks on the sidelines with shin splints.

Hutchison could play some part in next week's second team game against Surrey at Stirlands although Sussex physio Stuart Osborne says he will not be rushed back.

Hutchison said: "It's been a very frustrating time but I can start calling myself a Sussex player again. I'm not 100 per cent just yet, but I'm fit enough to train and bowl and that's what I wanted to hear when I saw the specialist yesterday."

Hutchison arrived from Yorkshire at the end of last season on a three-year contract, but he has been restricted to just 48 Championship overs and has yet to play any limited overs cricket for the county.

His imminent return is a timely boost for Sussex who are without James Kirtley for six weeks after he broke his hand training with the England one-day squad a week ago.

Kevin Innes joined the casualty list yesterday after a groin problem worsened during the current Championship match against Kent. He is doubtful for tomorrow's NUL game against Northamptonshire Steelbacks at Hove (1pm).

Hutchison said: "James's injury is a blessing in disguise because if he wasn't out I might have struggled to get in, but now hopefully there will be a slot open to me as a strike bowler."