11.   He had groin surgery in February and ankle surgery last month, but has returned to form.

12.   In addition, Bulgarian striker Emil Kostadinov, acquired by Bayern during the off-season, is recovering from groin surgery and also could miss some games.

13.   In addition, Lewis underwent groin surgery a few days before playing against Virginia Tech last Thursday.

14.   Off the tour much of the past two years because of two groin surgeries, he ran down balls doggedly and frustrated Sampras with his unorthodox but effective style.

15.   Shearer, out for at least a month after groin surgery, will miss the second leg although Ferdinand and Asprilla should return.

16.   Swedish national team midfielder Hakan Mild will be out for at least three weeks following groin surgery, news reports said Wednesday.

17.   Springbok scrumhalf Joost van der Westhuizen, who is recovering from groin surgery, is included on the Northern Bulls side but was unlikely to play until April.

18.   The flashy Colombian, who has been benched most of the season, got his start with Shearer on the bench following groin surgery.

19.   The three-man panel has been forced to dig deep after skipper Stephen Fleming delayed his return after a groin surgery.

20.   There is also a question mark over the fitness of Lions captain and second rower Martin Johnson, who has been advised to undergo groin surgery.