Mason keen to keep playing

Matt Mason played a key part in last year's county campaign

Worcestershire bowler Matt Mason hopes to delay surgery on his troublesome shoulder until the end of the season after having an injection.

The 33-year-old has been sidelined since going under the knife in February despite being initially hopeful of being fit in early May.

The Australian has been told he will need another operation at some stage but intends to delay it to help Worcestershire in their battle to stay in Division One of the LV County Championship.

Mason played a key part last season in helping Worcestershire to in promotion in the NatWest Pro40 and the championship.

He said: "I had an injection in my shoulder on Monday and, after letting it settle down for a couple of days, I had a bowl on Thursday.

"It went well. I was able to bowl at about 80 per cent. If I can push on in the same way for the next week, look to do some good solid bowling, I should be all right.

"It's a quick fix. I'm not saying anything definite at this stage but it seems as if I'll be able to put off surgery until the end of the season so I can get some cricket in."

Mason added: "I've gone past the frustration stage. It has been so long. Now I can see light at the end of the tunnel and I'm concentrating on that.

"The surgeon didn't seem to think it was a wear and tear injury because of my age and the fact I haven't had a long county career."