Broad may play fifth Test vs India without protective mask

England pacer Stuart Broad, who sustained a deep gash on the bridge of his nose after being hit by nasty bouncer from India speedster Varun Aaron, may not need any special protective mask in order to play the fifth Test at Oval as the wound is healing rapidly.

According to a report in the 'Mirror', "It was feared he would need extra protection, but the swelling around his battered nose is reducing after he was a hit by a bouncer from Varun Aaron."

The daily also mentioned that a rival helmet company from the one Broad uses has already offered their services with a promise to provide him with a better quality helmet.

His 'Ayrtek' helmet failed to stop the ball from getting between the peak and the grill.

Now rival helmet maker 'Masuri' have offered Broad one of their Vision Series lids, designed to prevent his type of injury and used by several stars.

Masuri MD Sam Miller said:"Masuri does not sponsor specific players. We believe that when it comes to something as important as head protection, players should be free to choose the best helmet."