Simon Jones goes under the knife

Simon Jones has undergone keyhole surgery on his knee and is out of action for at least six weeks although his management team insist it was a pre-planned operation.

Jones had already been ruled out of Worcestershire's opening game of the season, but remained hopeful of return to the side in the coming weeks. However, a visit to the specialist revealed further cartilage problems and he had scar tissue removed on Thursday.

"Simon Jones underwent keyhole surgery this morning under the care of his surgeon Andrew Williams," a statement from his management company said. " "Contrary to reports this was a planned procedure following diagnosis by Worcestershire medical staff during the county's pre-season camp in South Africa.

"Simon will immediately return to training with Worcestershire with a view to attaining match fitness within six weeks."

There had been optimistic talk that Jones could stake a claim for an England recall in time for the Ashes with a good start to the season, but this latest surgery is another cruel blow to his hopes as an injury-ravaged career continues.

Jones last played for England during the 2005 Ashes and was able to turn out for his former county Glamorgan in only five matches in the next two seasons. He fought back with 42 wickets in nine games for Worcestershire last summer and even secured a place in England's squad for the postponed ICC Champions Trophy but he couldn't see out the season and needed another trip under the knife.