Abraham hampered by hand injury on MotoGP return

Karel Abraham was badly hampered by his healing hand injury on his return to MotoGP action during practice at Assen.

The Czech rider ended the first day in 16th position on the Cardion AB Motoracing Ducati after receiving painkilling injections to numb the pain from his damaged left hand.

Abraham, who missed the British Grand Prix at Silverstone as a result of a crash during the Aragon test, was 2.762 seconds off the pace of factory Yamaha rider Ben Spies.

"I started the first practice session hoping that the hand wouldn't hurt too much, but I entered the pits after three laps, it was unthinkable to continue," said Abraham.

"We were running to clinic immediately [for a painkilling injection] and it helped a little and I was able to get back on track, but I needed another injection before afternoon practice.

"After the injections I didn't feel the pain so much, but the hand is less sensitive and I haven't enough strength to handle [the bike].

"Naturally this is affecting the results. We will try to ride again tomorrow and hope that it won't be worse."