Symonds has surgery on bicep

Andrew Symonds will miss the remainder of the CB Series and is in doubt for the World Cup after having surgery on a ruptured biceps tendon in his right shoulder. Symonds sustained the injury during Australia's 92-run loss to England at the SCG on Friday and scans revealed it was more serious than first thought.

Symonds carried on batting despite knowing he was not 100% but eventually had to retire hurt as Australia slumped to their first defeat of the series. "I felt it go during the game but I didn't realise how bad it was," Symonds said. "I batted on but the pain was considerable and I was advised by the team physio Alex Kountouris to come off."

He had surgery on Sunday and his availability for the World Cup remains uncertain, with Australia needing to announce their 15-man squad within nine days. Trefor James, the Australia team doctor, was unsure how long Symonds would be out of action. "Andrew will certainly miss the remainder of the Commonwealth Bank Series and will undergo intensive physiotherapy following surgery," Dr James said. "His return to cricket will depend on his progress."

Though it will impact on his preparation for the World Cup, Symonds - who made his name at the last World Cup with a stunning demolition job on Pakistan - was confident that he would still have a role to play as Australia defend their title. "I feel optimistic about the future because I know I'm a good healer - my wrist injury healed quicker than expected and is fine now," he said. "I'll do whatever it takes to get back as quickly as possible."

But Peter Larkins, the Australian sports physician and commentator, said Symonds would be lucky to be fit for the World Cup. "The absolute best-case scenario would be six to eight weeks," Dr Larkins told The Age. "Ordinarily it is a three-month injury and I know Andrew is not an ordinary person but he is an elite performer who throws and bowls and it's his right arm. I would say the World Cup would be seriously jeopardised."

A six-week lay-off might allow Symonds to return for the later stages of the tournament but an eight-week rest would make such a comeback extremely difficult. Symonds' absence has allowed Brad Hodge to remain with the CB Series squad and in the long-term, it could mean more pivotal roles for the allrounders Shane Watson and Cameron White. The loss of one of Australia's main limited-overs slow-bowling options could also open the door for Brad Hogg, who has managed only one ODI since the Champions Trophy.