SOMERSET’S Alfonso Thomas has had to put his winter plans on hold after he suffered a freak accident.

The 37-year-old who enjoyed a highly- successful 2014 season during which he claimed 53 wickets in the County Championship to top the club’s averages, slipped and broke his ankle while playing golf.

Thomas has since undergone surgery and is now on the way to making a full recovery.

Somerset’s director of cricket, Matt Maynard said: “It is really unfortunate news for Alfonso and we wish him a speedy recovery.

“These things do happen and we now need to focus on his rehabilitation and getting him fit to play for next season.”

Left-arm spinner George Dockrell is currently playing cricket on the other side of the world as part of Ireland’s warm up for the ICC Cricket Associate World Cup.

The 22-year-old left-arm spinner, who earlier this autumn, signed a new contract with Somerset jetted off on the trip to Australia and New Zealand late in September.

After three matches in Australia the Irish team have moved onto New Zealand, where Dockrell has enjoyed considerable success.

In last week’s one-day game against Northern Districts in Hamilton, batting at eight, the Irishman made an unbeaten 28 off 31 balls which he followed up by taking 4-17 off six overs including a maiden.

Somerset membership for all categories for the 2015 season is due to go on sale on Monday, November 3.