Cricket: Ryder returns to action

Jesse Ryder played his first competitive match since fracturing his hand in February. Photo / Kenny Rodger

Controversial Black Cap Jesse Ryder has made his long-awaited return to the cricket field.

He scored 14 in New Zealand's last-ball Twenty20 loss to the Australian Institute of Sport at the Emerging Players Tournament in Brisbane. It was Ryder's first competitive match since fracturing his hand at a Christchurch bar in February.

James Franklin, who sat the match out, says despite the low score, Ryder made a confident return. He says he has not been hearing any complaints from Ryder about the finger and he has been fielding at first slip where good hands are needed.

New Zealand batted first and posted 139 for eight in their 20 overs with highly-rated all-rounder Corey Anderson blazing 53 runs.

The AIS won by six wickets off the last ball.

New Zealand plays a South African development side this afternoon.

- NEWSTALK ZB