Joseph working hard on his fitness after shoulder surgery

Kent“s Robbie Joseph (pictured)is hoping for an injury free year in 2010 after the disappointments of missing the second part of last season with a shoulder problem.

The England Lions fast-bowler has just signed a new extended contract, taking him through until the end of the 2011 season.

He says committing his future to the county was an easy decision: “I love it here at Kent and was grateful to get the contract extension. We have a great opportunity of enjoying a real good year in 2010 because we have so many talented players in the team. I“m just looking forward to getting back out there and playing.”

The 27 year-old last turned out for Kent in the Twenty20 Cup win over Surrey, back in June. He has now returned to the nets, following shoulder surgery, and is desperate to put his injury disappointments behind him: “Injuries are very frustrating, he said.

“I hate missing matches – just like every other player. Sadly injuries happen to us all. I enjoyed a magnificent 18 months before the shoulder operation and I“m sure that the good times will return. I“m feeling really good and I“m sure that there are bigger and better things coming up for both me and Kent.”

Joseph has been working hard with new team director Paul Farbrace and bowling coach Geoff Arnold. He is clearly learning lots from both: “Farby and Geoff are putting in lots of work with me and I“m enjoying watching and learning from them. Both have lots of ideas and are very positive about how things are progressing. My arm was in a sling 12 weeks ago so I“ve made excellent progress and I cannot wait to get back out there for Kent.”

Team director Paul Farbrace added: “I“m looking forward to working with a fully fit Robbie Joseph in 2010. Our physio, Nimmo Reid, did a great job getting him back to full fitness and his skill and expertise is fantastic for Robbie going forward. It is reassuring to know that he was in such good hands during his recovery period.