WORCESTERSHIRE'S Andrew Hall is optimistic of an early return to action after being sidelined with a back problem.

The South African all-rounder underwent a scan after breaking down during the County's totesport League defeat against Durham on Sunday after bowling only two overs.

Worcestershire say the results of the scan are "indeterminate" and that they will be seeking more specialist medical advice.

But Hall is in an upbeat mood after revealing he had spoken with his own specialist back home. The 28-year-old has his fingers crossed that he could even be fit enough to play in next week's Frizzell County Championship Division One clash with Warwickshire at Edgbaston.

Hall had surgery on his back during the winter before returning to play in a Twenty-20 competition in South Africa in April.

New Road chief executive Mark Newton said: "We've had the scans back and they are indeterminate. We are seeking more specialist medical advice."