Lancashire captain Tom Smith has been ruled out for the remainder of the season with a back injury.
The 29-year-old, who has played just one County Championship match this season, has been informed that the complaint will require him to undergo surgery.
"It is frustrating that I won't be able to play again this season, but I will be in good hands with the medical staff at the club," the all-rounder told the club's official website.
"I would like to thank everybody at the club for their support and I would like to wish the lads all the best for the rest of the season."
Smith was only appointed the new skipper of Lancs at the start of the campaign.
