Saeed Ajmal could need hernia surgery

Saeed Ajmal, the Pakistan offspinner, has been suffering from pain in his lower abdomen and suspects he has a hernia. He is resting at the moment, missing the ongoing Faysal Bank Super Eight T 20 Cup in Lahore, and is expected to have surgery before the ODI series in Scotland in May.

"I have been suffering pain for the last couple of months in my groin," Ajmal told ESPNcricinfo. "It increased during the South Africa ODI series and now I have been advised to take rest until my doctors assess if it needs surgery.

"I have a feeling that I need surgery but I will wait for the doctor's advice. I am currently in Faisalabad and scheduled to see a doctor in Lahore this week. In any case I will be fit by the next international commitment, as it is not a major operation. It normally takes two to three week of recovery time."

According to senior sport and rehabilitation doctor, Asad Abbas, such injuries are common among sportsmen with an excessive workload. Ajmal, 35, has played every format for Pakistan and has been an integral part of their team for several years now.

In 2012, Ajmal played six Tests and took 39 wickets at an average of 20.56, which was the best among the top ten bowlers. His best performance came in the UAE, where his 24 wickets at 14.70 helped Pakistan demolish England, the then No.1 side in the world, 3-0. He also bagged 31 wickets in ODIs and 25 in T20s in this period.

Pakistan's next major assignment is the ICC Champions Trophy in England in June but prior to they are scheduled to play ODIs in Scotland and Ireland.