Melbourne Renegades have received a boost ahead of the start of the Big Bash League with injured wicketkeeper Matthew Wade likely to be available.
The Australian limited-overs keeper fractured a collarbone when he was hit by a ball in the nets warming up for Victoria's Sheffield Shield clash against Western Australia in November.
The 27-year-old was expected to miss the start of BBL05 after undergoing surgery but Renegades coach David Saker said that he had progressed quickly through his recovery program.
"I think he might be right for the first game, which will be good," Saker said on Tuesday.
"He's batting in the nets - I think it's just jumping around in the field and diving on his shoulder that's the issue at the moment."
The Renegades kick off their BBL campaign against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba on Saturday, December 17.
They also have Australian Test keeper Peter Nevill in their squad but his availability is limited by national commitments during the West Indies' tour.
Wade has missed three Shield matches since suffering the injury, with the Bushrangers managing a draw, a win and a loss in their skipper's absence.
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