Footitt injury blow

Mark Footitt, the Nottinghamshire left-arm quick bowler, will miss the start of the season with a back injury.

He had been suffered with a bulging disc for some time and it had been hoped that rest and injections would solve the problem, but it was eventually decided that surgery was required.

"He's on the mend and is swimming and starting gentle exercises, but won't be available until May," said director of cricket Mick Newell.

Footitt's career has been hit by injuries and he has been limited to eight first-class matches.