Cricket: Paine will bounce back - Haddin

Tim Paine. Photo / Getty Images

Brad Haddin is confident protege Tim Paine will overcome his latest injury setback and become Australia's longterm Test keeper.

The injury-plagued Paine was ruled out of action for another four months on Wednesday after being told he requires a further bout of finger surgery.

Paine is yet to take the field this season after re-breaking his right index finger during Tasmania's pre-season campaign.

But Haddin believes the Tigers' skipper will bounce back from this latest blow to add to his four Test caps.

"My thoughts go out to Tim," Haddin told reporters on Wednesday.

"I've toured a couple of times with him (and) he's going to be a very, very good player not only for Tasmania but Australia in years to come.

"It's a very unfortunate thing that's happened to him at the moment."

Cricket Australia released a statement on Wednesday saying Paine's recovery from surgery had been slower than expected.

"Tim has been reviewed by specialists and CA medical staff," CA doctor Trefor James said.

"It is clear that the fracture has not healed as expected and the best course of action is for Tim to undergo further surgery.

"This will be performed today and it is expected that Tim will be unavailable for a further 3-4 months."

Paine has long been thought of as the logical successor to Haddin in the Test team, and the 27-year-old's injury ensures Haddin's spot in the squad is under less pressure ahead of the Test series with India starting on Boxing Day.

But Haddin is adamant he wasn't concerned about the pressure being placed upon him by Paine and Victoria youngster Matthew Wade.

"I've never really thought too much about anyone (threatening my spot)," Haddin explained.

"All I'm really worried about is doing my job well and continuing to improve as a cricketer."

Paine said he was disappointed with the latest setback and he is keen to resume as quickly as possible.

- AAP