Noffke to undergo back operation

Noffke played in half of Queensland's games this winter

Worcestershire's overseas signing Ashley Noffke is to have back surgery, and could miss the start of the season.

Noffke, 31, who has had back problems for some while, has been cleared of the threat of serious injury.

But he has a persistent nerve problem, and will now have to undergo minor surgery to cure the problem.

His return to state cricket remains in doubt and he must prove his fitness in Australia if he is to be allowed to play for Worcestershire this summer.

If he is ruled out of Queensland's last month of the season, he would then be required to seek Cricket Australia clearance before joining Worcestershire.

Queensland media manager Stephen Gray said: "At this stage Noffke is still in the running to play county cricket.

"He's having minor surgery and could be out for 7-10 days but we won't know until after the operation.

Jones is likely to miss the start of Worcestershire's season

"If he returns to action in time for the Sheffield Shield final that's going to put him in the best possible position to go to Worcester."

"Whatever happens, Ashley will keep Worcestershire informed of his progress."

Worcestershire will be following Noffke's recovery closely, after Fidel Edwards withdrew from his county contract and failed to join the New Road side halfway through last season.

England's Simon Jones is also on the way back from a knee operation and is unlikely to be fit for the first month of the season.