Northants suffer Evans blow

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Northamptonshire seamer Luke Evans is set to miss the early part of the 2012 season after undergoing an operation on a bulging disc on Monday.

The 24-year-old was seen by world-renowned consultant Nick Birch after an earlier MRI scan revealed a substantial bulge.

Evans will spend the rest of this week nursing his back at home in Sunderland before starting a rehab programme at Wantage Road next week with head physiotherapist Barry Goudriaan.

Evans said: “Consultant Nick Birch has a top reputation and I’m confident that the operation will prove to be a complete success.

“Add to that the fact that the rehab programme at Northants is going to be top quality, I can look at getting back to action in the coming months.

“Personally, I’m very disappointed to be missing pre-season training, but it’s great to see the way the lads are gearing up towards to the season.

“Hopefully on my return, I will be able to come back to strengthen the ranks and help the team to a successful finish to the 2012 campaign.

“It is a relief to know what the problem is and to know there is a solution. I’m pleased there is some light at the end of the tunnel.”

Goudriaan added: “We have decided to go for the direct approach to overcome his persistent back injuries. He’s had the operation and will start the rehab here at the County Ground next week.

“We are confident Luke will make a full and speedy recovery. We are looking at a timeframe of 10-12 weeks before Luke is ready for competitive cricket. I am sure everybody wishes Luke a speedy recovery.”

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