Steve Harmison has been named Durham captain just three weeks after surgery © Getty Images

Steve Harmison, the England fast bowler, will make a surprising return to cricket just three weeks after a hernia operation. Harmison had only expected to be available for Durham's Championship match against Surrey on August 13 at the very earliest - and that was even with his recovery going well.

But he has been named Durham captain for their three-day match against Sri Lanka A which starts on Wednesday. He started running in the week following the operation and was given the all-clear at the end of July to resume more strenuous exercise.

In his absence, and that of Matthew Hoggard, England's attack has lacked an incisive edge. But Chris Tremlett showed great promise in the first two Tests against India, with 10 wickets at 19.60, and has received praise from Harmison himself.

If Harmison's comeback goes well, he could be available for Durham's Friends Provident Trophy final at Lord's on August 18.