Sports PhysiotherapyApr 20, 2024

Warwickshire CCC's lead physio Gerhard Mostert welcomes partnership with handy Priory Hospital

Gerhard Mostert, Warwickshire County Cricket Club’s lead physiotherapist, has welcomed news that will enable him to obtain a speedy diagnosis if one of the players is injured.

Warwickshire – known as the Bears in the Twenty20 version of the game – has signed a three-year commercial partnership with the Priory Hospital, part of Circle Health Group in Birmingham.

The deal means the medical and physiotherapy team can request hospital tests – such as MRI scans, X-rays, CT and ultrasound scans – as well as obtaining consultancy support from some of the region’s leading healthcare specialists.

Gerhard said: ‘The location couldn’t be any better for us, so close to the stadium, as it means we can send players for an assessment on injuries mid-game if needed and get a diagnosis in a matter of minutes.

‘We might send players for scans up to 30 times a year; it’s an important part of our player care. Working closely with the Priory Hospital will help us manage medical conditions and our return-to-play plans for injured players.’

The world-famous Edgbaston ground is situated in close proximity to the Priory Hospital

Gerhard studied physiotherapy in his native South Africa

Gerhard studied physiotherapy at the University of the Orange Free State (since renamed University of the Free State) in Bloemfontein, South Africa, where he graduated in 1995. Born in Kroonstad, he was a keen rugby player in his youth, representing the Cheetahs Academy.

According to Warwickshire's website, his nickname is ‘Mozzy’ and he moved to the UK 2001. He is described as 'larger than life character' and the website adds: 'Gerhard ensures the Academy and First Team are in optimal condition to take the field and perform at their best.'

Warwickshire, founded in 1892, is one of 18 first class clubs in the English and Welsh cricket structure. With the new season underway, the Edgbaston ground will host a men’s county match with Nottinghamshire later this month and a test match between England the West Indies in July.

We might send players for scans up to 30 times a year; it’s an important part of our player care. Working closely with the Priory Hospital will help us manage medical conditions and our return-to-play plans for injured players [Gerhard Mostert]

Boon for members too

Silvie Adams, Priory Hospital’s executive director, said: ‘We are looking forward to supporting Warwickshire CCC on and off the field as their official private hospital partner.

‘Having fast access to state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic services is essential to ensuring players can continue competing at the highest level of the domestic game. On behalf of colleagues and consultants at the hospital, we wish the Bears the very best of luck for the season ahead.’

Ben Seifas, head of partnerships at Edgbaston, added: ‘Warwickshire members, Bears fans and our staff will also benefit from a range of special healthcare offers through the Club’s My Edgbaston portal.’

Author: Ian A McMillan