Paul Havell has become the second Sussex bowler to fly home early from abroad because of injury.

The 20-year-old suffered a badly strained back during fielding practice with the Carlton club in his native Melbourne and was due to see a specialist this week after returning home at the weekend.

Havell (inset), who has yet to make his first-class debut for the county, does not believe the injury is too serious, but he doesn't want to take any risks.

He said: "Carlton want-ed me to go for a scan and physio treatment out there would have cost me a lot of money so I spoke to the club and our physios and decided to come back early.

"It's a shame because I was doing quite well. I'd broken into the first team, got 17 wickets in six games and was really enjoying myself."

Havell's first season with Sussex was disrupted after he injured his knee after falling off a bike last February.

He was given a new one-year contract at the end of the season and is desperate to force his way into the team this season.

"Last year was disappointing. The injury set me back and I didn't really feel right until July," added Havell.

"That's why I don't want to take any risks with this injury. It's a big summer for me and I want to be at my best."

Fellow fast bowler Billy Taylor returned home early from New Zealand last month after suffering a stress fracture of his ankle.

But both players will be fit for Sussex's pre-season tour of Grenada which starts on March 21.

Sussex's AGM will be held the previous day at 6.30pm at the Grand Hotel in Brighton.

l FORMER Sussex fast bowler Ed Giddins has joined county champions Surrey on a two-year contract.