Alfonso Thomas, Somerset’s leading wicket-taker this year in the English County Championship, has broken his ankle while playing golf.

The 37-year-old South African seamer, who slipped on wet steps to sustain the injury, has undergone surgery and ‘is on his way to making a full recovery’, according to Somerset’s website.

Thomas took 53 championship wickets in 2014, including becoming the first Somerset bowler to snare four scalps in as many balls, a feat he achieved in June versus Sussex at Taunton.

Recently-appointed Somerset director of cricket Matt Maynard told the club’s website: ‘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 to play for next season.’

Watch Thomas take four wickets in four balls for Somerset against Sussex at Taunton in the County Championship.