ECB media release:

Graham Onions ruled out of all cricket for up to three months

The Durham and England quick bowler Graham Onions underwent further scans on his injured back earlier this week and a review by a spinal specialist.

The scans confirmed an ongoing bone stress reaction in his back and Graham has been advised that he will need to undergo a further period of rest and rehabilitation programme of up to twelve weeks in duration.

Graham also underwent surgery yesterday at a London hospital to repair cartilage in the front of his left knee and the rehabilitation period required will be of a similar length to that prescribed for his injured back.

Graham Onions said: “I am naturally incredibly disappointed to miss the bulk of the domestic season and am still hopeful that with rest I can be back on the field nearer to the end of the summer.

“The ECB medical team has been very supportive and all I can do is be patient, work hard on my rehabilitation programme and focus on my number one goal which is to be fully fit and available for selection for the Ashes tour to Australia.”