Image: Supplied.

Tech3 KTM Factory Racing’s Remy Gardner completed close to 200 laps at the MotoGP pre-season test in Malaysia, the Australian finishing much of a busy schedule despite still recovering from a fractured right wrist.

The MotoGP rookie had the opportunity to take part in the three-day shakedown test at Sepang earlier in the week before continuing progress at the official two-day test, ultimately finishing 23rd just 1.217s behind leader Enea Bastianini.

“It has been a very busy week of testing,” Gardner reflected. “Malaysia was fun, but I did roughly 200 laps here, so I have to admit that I look forward to changing the track and going to Mandalika. We tried a lot of different things this week, especially during the official test, and we managed to find some interesting points with the bike.

“Halfway through the day today, we decided to stop because I was struggling with my physical condition and especially with my wrist after four full days on track, it is important for me to focus on my recovery. I still managed to go faster this morning and I improved my lap-time, which I am happy with. We are still a bit far away from the top positions, but considering the circumstances, it is not bad at all.”

With all things considered, Gardner put in a credible effort end up less than seven-tenths away from the top-placed KTM rider Miguel Oliveira and under two-tenths shy of teammate Raul Fernandez. The Australian now has three days to recover before testing resumes at Mandalika Street Circuit in Indonesia from 11 February.