Benning to undergo back surgery

Benning was named Surrey's most promising newcomer in 2003

Surrey all-rounder James Benning will undergo back surgery on Tuesday.

The 25-year-old told BBC London 94.9: "Last season two bulges formed that are pushing on the nerves in my spine.

"I missed quite a long period during the Twenty20 last year. The surgeon will cut them away and hopefully it will be problem solved.

"I'd be lying if I said I wasn't playing through a lot of pain last season but the key was to get out there but I couldn't leave it any longer."

Benning joined Surrey in 2002 but did not make his first-class debut until 2003, when he was named the Brown Caps' most promising newcomer.

Ahead of surgery, Benning added: "I've made sure I'm strong so that hopefully the rehab won't take that long.

"It's going to be a case of small steps but hopefully after a six week period from the day to the operation I should be running again so that's quite a positive thing.

"Come the new year I'll be back downstairs, indoors practising my batting and hopefully getting my bowling to how it should be. The key is to be ready for the start of next season."