PHIL Jaques will be looking to carry on where he left off when he returns to action with Worcestershire in tomorrow's Liverpool Victoria County Championship division two clash with Glam-organ at Colwyn Bay (11am).

The prolific Aussie smashed 621 runs in 11 first-class innings at an average of more than 102 for the County, before leaving to play for Australia 'A' in the Top End Series five weeks ago.

Now, following a successful competition Down Under, he is back with his Worcester-shire team-mates and director of cricket Steve Rhodes is hoping his star batsman can maintain his early season form.

Glamorgan's Aussie ace Mark Cosgrove is also set to return after playing alongside Jaques in the same series.

Rhodes said: "Having Phil back in the team will breathe further enthusiasm into the side and we are looking forward to having him back."

However, despite Jaques' return, the former England wicketkeeper has injury worries over Kabir Ali and Graeme Hick.

Paceman Kabir is still feeling the effects of an intercostal injury, while July's player-of-the-month Hick is recovering after splitting the webbing on his hand while playing against Derbyshire at Chesterfield.

Rhodes added: "With Graeme, it all depends how comfortable his hand is, but he is a big strong bloke and he will be desperate to play.

"Throughout his career, when he has had little niggling injuries, he has always been keen to get out on the park and play. He'll have a bat in the nets today and we'll see how he feels then.

"The likelihood is that we will be without Kabir Ali again tomorrow. He is still struggling with his intercostal injury and it is becoming a real nuisance, but we are optimistic we can prevent it from becoming a six to eight-week injury. However, he has been out for nearly three weeks now, which is disappointing."

Lou Vincent will make way for Jaques and Nadeem Malik is set to deputise for Kabir.

In the reverse match at New Road in May, last-wicket pair Stephen Moore and Nadeem Malik saw out a tense last over to secure a draw for the home side.

Rhodes will be looking for a victory this time out as his side bid to keep up the pressure on leaders Surrey.

Meanwhile, Hick is planning to take his time while considering Worcestershire's offer of a new contract for next season.

The 40-year-old batsman said: "Obviously I am pleased to have received an offer from the club. I am going to take a few weeks to consider it and maybe I'll have more to say about it then."