Australia fast bowler Morris sidelined 12 months with back surgery

Australian fast bowler Lance Morris has opted for pars stabilisation surgery to address a lumbar bone stress injury, sidelining him for approximately 12 months and ruling him out of the upcoming Ashes series. Morris, viewed as a potential fifth pacer backup for stars like Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, experienced back soreness during preparations for the ongoing ODI series against South Africa, leading to scans that revealed the injury. The surgery, performed by New Zealand-based surgeons Rowan Schouten and Grahame Inglis—who have successfully treated several fast bowlers including teammate Cameron Green—aims to stabilize Morris's spine and enable a return to peak form. Morris expressed confidence in the procedure, citing successful recoveries of other fast bowlers worldwide and plans to work diligently through rehabilitation. Cricket Australia has noted Morris's history of injuries has interrupted his play since his promising rise in the 2022-23 season, and this surgery represents a significant step toward long-term career continuity. The decision to undergo surgery reflects a shift from traditional rehab approaches to more proactive surgical intervention for stress fractures among fast bowlers.