Simon Andrews sidelined after Mallory crash

MSS Kawasaki rider Simon Andrews missed today’s BSB test at Brands Hatch and will also miss Friday’s test at Snetterton after crashing at Mallory yesterday.

The 24 year-old from Evesham crashed on the entry into Gerrards after being blown off line by a strong gust of wind. He was hit by his ZX-10 in the crash and suffered heavy bruising to his shoulder.

Before the crash Andrews and team-mate Julien Da Costa  completed more than 90 laps to allow the team to focus on collecting data from the Kent circuit in readiness for the first round of the championship on Easter weekend.

Team owner Nick Morgan said: ‘It was a shame for Simon and his crew yesterday but, we did enough laps to extract data and confirm that the work we’ve done in the workshop over the winter months has really been beneficial.

“There are some significant changes to our bikes for the 2009 season and clearly these are a really bold step in the right direction.

“We may be down to one rider temporarily but Julien is massively experienced, mentally very strong and also very quick and professional. He will continue to spearhead the development work while Simon recovers.”