Motorsport:Eugene Laverty fractured his hand in a 315kph crash while testing on Phillip Island in Australia today, but is still hopeful of making the first race of the World Superbike Championship season on February 26th.
The Toomebridge Aprilia Factory rider tweeted the news earlier today, saying: "Brake pads got knocked back after a wobble entering turn one at 315kph. No brakes so I had to put the bike down. Big ole crash."
The later added: "Broke third metacarpal in my left hand and my head’s ok.”
The 25-year-old, who was fourth in the 2011 championship in his debut season with Yamaha, considered returning home for treatment, but has now opted to fly his specialist out to Australia, according to BBC.
If cleared to race, Laverty will make his debut for Aprilia at Philip Island in 11 days’ time, partnering former World Superbike champion Max Biaggi.