Vermeulen hurts leg, finger in high-speed off

Chris Vermeulen says he is 'feeling OK considering' after an accident during the second World Superbike race of the day at Phillip Island saw him hit the barriers at considerable speed.

The Kawasaki rider went into the second encounter eager to make amends for a self-inflicted retirement in race one, Vermeulen getting an outstanding start to run fourth from 14th on the grid at the end of the opening lap.

However, the former MotoGP rider struggled to keep up with the running pace and was dropping back down the order when he slid off at Hayshed on lap eight, Vermeulen proceeding to impact the tyre wall with force.

Stretchered from the circuit, Vermeulen has since been diagnosed with a badly bruised right leg and a damaged finger, and while no broken bones have been identified by X-rays, he will undergo a detailed MRI scan as a precautionary measure.

Despite the injuries, however, Vermeulen was in a positive mood, insisting he is 'OK' given the ferocity of the accident.

"I was feeling positive for the race after our two-day test and qualifying sessions. In both races I had really good starts but in the first race I lost the front early on when lying 7th and in race two I had a problem that resulted in a high-speed crash.

"I'm bruised and battered but am feeling OK, considering the speed of the crash. I had heavy impact on my lower right leg and my finger is pretty smashed up. The preliminary X-rays have shown no breaks but for a precaution I am heading to Melbourne for a more detailed MRI scan.

"I'm glad we have a month before Portimao, so I can ensure that I am back to full fitness."