Smethurst has withdrawn from Shrewsbury, presumably because a deep run there would make it awkward to get to Canada in time for the 15K futures in week 10.
I can report that Kyle has withdrawn from Cherbourg. He is suffering from cold symptoms which is why he ran out of steam in the 2nd set yesterday. Whilst it is nothing serious, they (coaches and family) are still very wary of the debilitating "mystery illness" that brought about an early end to last season. So after 6 weeks on the road, they are taking no chances and Kyle is having a few days rest at home.
A shame, but wise decision. I'm really hoping Rice has a good week, although i've got a feeling he's going to qualify and get drawn against Evo for some reason.
Poor Tom F withdrew yesterday - guess his injury at that blasted Tour event was not just a minor thing . . . .
Seems to be a bloody jinx. Last year James Marsalek got injured the week after winning his first futures title, and while back to full fitness he has never recovered from that setback, this year the same thing has happened to Tom Farquharson.