Alex Morris to have surgery in Australia.

Alex Morris, Hampshire Cricket's all-rounder is to have a minor operation in Sydney on 7th February.

Alex Morris photo Mike Atelksky

The key-hole operation is an attempt to remove a fragment of bone from his back. Morris has been recouperating during the English winter under the scrutiny of Hampshire's physio Pat Farhart.

The 26 year old mananaged just 29 overs last season, following trouble with back spasms at the start of the year, and played purely as a batsmen in his few appearances in the first XI.

Hampshire's Director of Cricket Tim Tremlett hoped he will be back for full training from the start of March.

Hampshire's opening match of the season is on April 18th when they visit Worcestershire in the County Championship.