David Payne undergoes successful ankle surgery
3 March 2023
David Payne has had successful surgery on his right ankle after the experienced left-armer began feeling discomfort during the Big Bash League.
Payne will now undergo a period of recovery and rehabilitation, and is expected to be unavailable for selection for up to 12 weeks. As a result, Payne will miss the start of the County Championship season and is targeting a return to first team action for the start of the T20 Vitality Blast.
Speaking of his frustration of being sidelined, Payne said: “It’s really disappointing to be missing the start of the season. It was an extremely difficult decision to go ahead with the surgery, however I know it is the right decision for me and my career in the long run. I look forward to supporting the lads in any way I can while I’m in rehab and will do my best to get back out on the park as soon as possible.”
Performance Director, Steve Snell, added: “Naturally it is disappointing to lose David for the start of the season during what will be a vital period of County Championship cricket for us, but the most important thing is ensuring David is able to bowl pain free to his highest potential.
“We will support David fully in his recovery and can’t wait to see him back out on the field as soon as possible.”
