SURREY captain Graeme Smith is to miss a "few months" of the season to return to his native South Africa to undergo surgery on an ankle injury.
Despite issues with his ankle caused by a hard winter's cricket, Graeme was determined to start his Surrey career on time.
The Surrey website revealed: "After scans this afternoon [Wednesday] it has been determined that surgery is required and he will miss a few months of the English County season for Surrey."
Smith said: "To have to head home now, so early in my time at Surrey is very frustrating but I leave the team in a good place and hope to be back with them as soon as possible."
Surrey team sirector Chris Adams said: "Graeme has made an impressive start as a leader and the squad have really responded to his leadership.
"It's clearly disappointing for all, especially Graeme, but we wish him a speedy recovery
Despite issues with his ankle caused by a hard winter's cricket, Graeme was determined to start his Surrey career on time.
The Surrey website revealed: "After scans this afternoon [Wednesday] it has been determined that surgery is required and he will miss a few months of the English County season for Surrey."
Smith said: "To have to head home now, so early in my time at Surrey is very frustrating but I leave the team in a good place and hope to be back with them as soon as possible."
Surrey team sirector Chris Adams said: "Graeme has made an impressive start as a leader and the squad have really responded to his leadership.
"It's clearly disappointing for all, especially Graeme, but we wish him a speedy recovery
