Gatting happy with England A in wet build-up

Cricket

Mike Gatting yesterday shrugged off further disruptions to England A's practice schedule and declared himself happy with his squad's progress in the build-up to the first match of their seven-week Australian tour.

Coach Gatting has been frustrated by the Sydney weather in the lead-up to the New South Wales XI match in Tamworth, starting on Thursday. A full day's workout at the SCG on Saturday was restricted to fielding and fitness practice while they waited for the outfield to dry. Another practice at the same venue yesterday was ruined by rain, though they were able to make alternative arrangements at a nearby indoor cricket school.

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