May 15, 2007	Tuesday	Rabi-us-Sani 27, 1428

TAUNTON (England), May 14: West Indies suffered another injury scare when vice-captain and opening batsman Daren Ganga needed stitches for a facial cut he suffered while batting in nets.

The tour match between West Indies and Somerset was abandoned as a draw on Monday after rain washed out the last two days of the three-day fixture at the County Ground.

Chris Gayle and Runako Morton suffered injuries on Saturday, but like Ganga, are expected to be available for first Test against England, starting Thursday at Lord's.

As persistent rain prevented any play, West Indies Ganga suffered injury while batting in indoor facility at the County Ground. He was struck on helmet by a delivery from fast bowler Daren Powell.

“Team physiotherapist, Stephen Partridge, assured injury in no way hampers Ganga's availability for first Test against England starting at Lord's on Thursday,” West Indies media manager Imran Khan stated.

Gayle suffered a bruised thumb and Morton developed a thigh strain on Saturday and team officials expressed confidence both will be ready for the Test.

This was West Indies' only warm-up match before the series opener. Saturday's first day was also cut to 48 overs by rain, badly affecting their thirst for practice ahead of Lord's Test.—Agencies