Twelve weeks ago Kimberley Kheing rolled her ankle, but after the ‘normal’ two weeks the response had not been as good as usual, two weeks became four, four became six, and although obviously the player became frustrated she understood the long game and working with Storm’s Coaches Colbron & Brocklehurst and Bristol Physio’s Andy Howse.

It was tough for everyone to make the decision to shut her down for the season but we all understood at the end of the day she wanted to be ready and available for England, and it was our job to make sure that happened.

Rehabilitation was a long and sometimes lonely road, with lots of core work and swimming as a distraction, but it all proved worthwhile, because when England did come calling she was ready, and because Kim had maintained her fitness levels when she did step on the floor in Manchester for England she was able to compete.

The work continues over the summer, with the intention of being ready to lead Storm’s division one women in September.