Cowan still struggling with concussion

NSW coach Trent Johnston said opening batsman Ed Cowan was still suffering from headaches after being hit on the helmet by a Joel Paris short ball in New Zealand 10 days ago, but expects him to be available for selection for the Blues' clash against South Australia later this month.

Quick Single: Warriors v Blues - day one report, scorecard

Cowan retired hurt during NSW's second innings when he was hit on the badge of his helmet during the Shield match against Western Australia at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, in Lincoln, on February 5 and was forced to sit out the final two days of that game.

He was also a late withdrawal from the current day-night Sheffield Shield match against WA at the WACA Ground that began yesterday, replaced by Nick Larkin.

Johnston said that while his preparation for the game in Perth was good, the medical staff thought it was a risk to play him.

"Ed did another cogs test today," Johnston said on Sunday. "Speaking to Doc (John) Orchard this morning, Ed has been suffering from minor headaches in the morning, but they're clearing up around 11am to midday.

"Doc felt that we couldn't go into the game with that sort of risk and NSW cricket policy is that the wellbeing of the player had to come first.

"So we felt this game was probably a little bit close for Ed."

Cowan's opening partner Daniel Hughes was the star for the Blues on day one, making his maiden first-class hundred – a fine 124 that anchored the visitors' stumps total of 5-284.