Sydney, Jan. 16 : Australian Test opener Phil Jaques has delayed his return to action by a further week after experiencing discomfort in his back during training.

Jaques, who missed the entire Test summer after undergoing surgery for a bulging disc, was due to return to the crease in grade cricket for Sutherland this weekend.

"Phil experienced a small amount of discomfort after a training session during the week, as a result of which his surgeon recommended allowing an extra week for recovery," Cricket NSW said in a statement.

"According to the surgeon, the usual recovery time from this type of surgery is three months, and as Phil''s operation was on 20 October and given the tours to South Africa and England, it was thought this course of action was in his best interests.

"As a result of the surgeon''s recommendation, Phil has decided to delay his comeback by a week and will take his place for Sutherland in their game against Sydney Uni next weekend." (ANI)