Simon Jones recovers after successful operation

Worcestershire have been boosted with the news that Simon Jones' knee operation went well and he has begun a rehabilitation period which is expected to last between six and eight weeks.

"[The operation[ went very smoothly and now he will undergo the recuperation, as envisaged," Mark Newton, the county chairman, told the Press Association. "I want to stress that the operation he had on his knee in the autumn has shown on the scans to be completely cleared up. This latest one is just an ordinary cartilage operation.

"I saw Simon today and he was as upbeat as you could expect for someone who had the news he has had recently. But his determination after so many knockbacks is extraordinary and he has that greater inner strength to succeed and to give things another go.

"To have him back fully fit and fresh for the second half of the season, when maybe some of the other bowlers may need a little rest, would be a massive boost for us and him."