Scott Brant jetted back to Australia with a new two-year contract to soften the blow of missing the remainder of Essex's season.

The 20-year-old fast bowler's summer labours as one of Essex's overseas players has been cut short by a knee injury.

Now he has returned to Queensland for an exploratory operation.

"I'm obviously disappointed I'm not able to finish the season with Essex, especially at a time when they have other injury problems and are fighting to stay in the First Division of the Championship.

"But the important thing is that I shall be returning next season and the one after that because I put pen to paper for a two-year deal."

Published Tuesday, August 5, 2003

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