Bradford's Ajmal Shahzad, who last year became the first Yorkshire-born cricketer from an Asian background to play for the county, is poised to turn out for Phoenix on Sunday in their Totesport League clash against Leicestershire Foxes at Headingley (12 noon).

But first of all, Ajmal must prove he has fully recovered from a recent injury by coming through his game for the Yorkshire Academy at Barnsley today.

The 18-year-old quick bowler and useful bat, was drafted into Phoenix's side last May after an injury crisis. He opened the bowling at Headingley against Worcestershire Royals.

Although he did not take a wicket, Ajmal showed plenty of promise, only conceding 35 runs from his six overs.

Ajmal did not play for Yorkshire again last season because of a stress fracture in his back.

Said director of cricket David Byas: "We consider him to be an outstanding prospect."

Phoenix will be trying to end a dreadful run of form which has seen them lose eight of their last ten games.

Yorkshire Phoenix from: Wood, White, Jaques, Lumb, McGrath, Harvey, Sayers, Pyrah, Bresnan, Dawson, Guy, Ajmal Shahzad, Blain, Kruis.

Meanwhile, Yorkshire have ended their joint venture with Leeds CFAC for shared use of the shop at Headingley and the county club's own shop is currently situated on the ground floor of the old winter shed.

Updated: 09:42 Saturday, September 03, 2005