Mitchell Starc is making good progress in his return from injury, with a view to returning to cricket in the Blues’ first Sheffield Shield game next week.

Starc returned to bowling last week after colliding with a piece of equipment while training with the Australian squad, and cutting his leg in two places.

After weeks of recovery, the Blues’ spearhead is eager to get back out in the middle.

“It has been going well,” said Starc

“I’ve been wrapped up like an eskimo for about five weeks but it’s been going well, I’ve been bowling and running and I’m ready to go.”

The Blues’ quick confirmed he will be right to go for the team’s Sheffield Shield opener against Queensland next week.

“I’m available for selection,” said Starc.

“Hopefully I’ll be on that plane to Brisbane on Monday, and get some good bowling in and be back playing, ready for that first Test.”

“I’ve been bowling off the long run, I had a nets session with the Blues boys on Tuesday and I’ll bowl again today and one more session before Brisbane next week.”