There was the encouraging sight earlier this week of Worcestershire batsman Tom Fell having his first net since starting three cycles of chemotherapy in his bid to combat cancer.
Fell, Worcestershire's leading run-scorer in the County Championship last summer, was welcomed warmly by his team-mates.
He also joined in with some gym work and fielding practice at New Road.
The 22-year-old is not getting carried away and starts the second three week cycle of chemotherapy later this week.
But he is hopeful of even being able to play some second team cricket in the not too distant future if he continues to react positively to the treatment.
Fell said: "I had a little bat and got involved in the gym and in fielding and it was alright. It felt pretty well in the nets which was quite nice!
"It was the first time I've been back up for training (since starting chemotherapy). If I'm feeling okay, there is no reason why I can't get involved in some more training.
"I've even spoken about potentially playing in a second team game or two. I've studied a few dates in the diary which I could potentially play in.
"The more I can do now, the quicker I will be able to get back when the treatment is over. If I can keep training and keep relatively fit, it will mean less time before I kind of get first team ready."
Fell added: "Of course, I know I've not got to get too far ahead of myself, I'm aware of that, but I've reacted well to the first cycle (of chemotherapy).
"I had two days out of 21 in the first three week cycle when I didn't feel so good which is pretty good.
"If the second cycle is anything like the first, there is no reason why I won't be able to get involved in a bit more training and even play if I can.
"But we will see how it goes."
