Back injury forces Hall out for at least six weeks

Andrew Hall, the South African allrounder, has been ruled out of action for up to six weeks. He injured his back while bowling on the fourth day of the final Test against West Indies at Centurion Park.

After bowling only two balls in his first over of the day, he was forced to leave the field, and was later taken to hospital. An MRI scan revealed a large lateral disc prolapse on the left side of his back.

After consultation with a neurosurgeon, Hall agreed to undergo surgery immediately. The operation was a success and Hall will be discharged on Wednesday morning.

However, it still means that Hall will miss the five-match one-day series against West Indies, and could also miss South Africa's tour of New Zealand in February and March.