JAY Couisnard admitted the motorway crash that forced Worcester Wolves to cancel their BBL encounter at Leeds Force was a “blessing in disguise”.

Wolves were due to take on Force but the clash was called off after the team coach was in a five-vehicle pile-up on the M42 near Tamworth.

Couisnard said it was a “shock” and was thankful no one suffered serious injury as Worcester went on to beat Glasgow in the BBL Trophy last eight two days later.

“It was an unfortunate incident but luckily everybody came out OK,” he said.

“There were a few minor cuts and bruises but the main thing about it was everybody was walking and able to compete in the BBL.

“It was a blessing in disguise in a way as we had a lot of guys banged up (carrying knocks). So when it didn’t take place it gave us more of a rest for the Trophy.

“We used that to our advantage as we took a day off, got better mentally and physically and played well against Glasgow.”

Head coach Paul James said Wolves were in “no fit state” to play against Leeds.

“It was a scary experience,” he said. “I have been travelling on the motorways for the best part of 30 years with basketball and never been in an accident like that.

“The bus driver did a great job not to hit the car in front full-on as it could have been a lot worse. It was more of a glancing hit, so nobody got seriously hurt and we were able to move on from it.”

A day after, Wolves held a light training session before thumping Glasgow 85-66 to secure a semi-final against Newcastle Eagles with the first leg in the north-east on Friday (7.30pm).

“It was frustrating not to play but there is no point us dwelling on it,” James said.

“We had a very important game two days later and that was my concern as I wanted the players to be all fit and healthy in body and in mind to play against Glasgow.

“We got together to make sure everyone was feeling alright. We had a light shooting session and the guys were good to go. It was a very professional performance, especially after the accident.”