Stunned skipper Iestyn Harris today recalled waking from a routine operation - to be told he can't run for THREE months and will miss the start of next season.

The Bulls star received the shock news following keyhole surgery on his knee a fortnight ago.

Harris had been expected to line up for Wales in their World Cup qualifier yesterday, with the Welsh RL delighted at their showcase player featuring for the first time in six years.

But the crocked stand-off failed to show in Bridgend and won't be in action for anyone until late February.

Harris revealed: "I went in to the clinic thinking I'd just need a little clean-out of the knee.

"But then I came round from the anaesthetic to hear the surgeon say it's going to be 12 weeks before I can even run again.

"I wasn't expecting that. There was a lot more damage than we thought and I've had the same cartilage op as Les (Vainikolo).

"I've been struggling for about four months. The knee would stiffen up at half-time, while after matches it gave me pain for the next couple of days but I really didn't think it was that bad."

Earlier this summer, Harris ruled himself out of Great Britain's arduous Tri-Nations tour in the hope of being fully refreshed for Bulls in 2007.

The playmaker, 30, planned to recharge his batteries to get the most out of his final two years at Grattan Stadium but ironically now faces a frustrating winter.

"There's a chance I could be fit for the first match but I'll probably miss the opening couple," Harris added.

Super League XII may kick off as early as February 2 next season, leaving Bulls boss Steve McNamara perplexed.

With Stanley Gene lined up for a move to Hull KR, he has little cover for Harris, who has missed just one game since joining from Cardiff RU in July 2004.

Also, the salary cap will be full once Wakefield's David Solomona finalises his Odsal switch, preventing a stop-gap signing.

However, the Kiwi second-row can play at No 6 and might now unexpectedly start his Bulls career in that position.

Meanwhile, Harris had organised to cut short his family holiday in Miami to bolster Wales' cause - but then had to cancel the trip altogether.

"I've been on crutches and not allowed to fly so we've just spent a few days in the Lakes," he said.

Wales lost 21-14 as Scotland, with Bulls hooker Ian Henderson debuting, took the advantage into next year's return leg. The victors win a place at the 2008 World Cup in Australia.