England and Somerset wicketkeeper-batsman Craig Kieswetter will consult with a specialist overseas during his recovery from a career-threatening eye injury.

The 27-year-old suffered damage to his eye socket and cheekbone when a ball hit him through his helmet grille while batting against Northants last year.

Director of cricket Matt Maynard said in a statement via the club's official website: "He will see an eye specialist in Belgium next week, as well as seeing a specialist in the USA. That will hopefully give some indication as to what will happen going forward.

"Craig has got a lot of years left as a top player but it is important that he makes sure he gets his vision looked after which is why he is seeing the best eye specialists in the world. Hopefully, that will give us a better understanding of the long term prognosis.

"As a coach I have had to plan that we won't see him for the summer. If the results from the specialists are positive and he feels that he is ready to resume his career before the end of the season then we would be delighted to have him back."

Kieswetter made his one-day international and Twenty20 debuts back in 2010.