WIVELISCOMBE captain John Ker will almost certainly miss the start of next season.

The 28-year-old No 8, who has played only three matches this season, is due to have reconstructive surgery on his right ankle on April 19.

Ker said: “I have been waiting for some time for this operation. While I’ve at last got a date it has come too late for me to make pre-season training. Hopefully I should be back playing again by October.”

Ker last played against neighbours Wellington on Boxing Day. Before this he had played only twice early in the season.

Despite his absence virtually all season, Wiveliscombe are looking to finish a respectable fifth in Somerset Premier this season.