Loss of Evans a big blow to Highlanders

The Highlanders' Super 14 rugby hopes have taken a big blow with first five-eighth Nick Evans likely to be ruled out for some weeks with a broken collar bone.

Evans was injured in the bruising match with the Bulls in Pretoria on Sunday.

A Highlanders spokeswoman told NZPA today Evans was to see a specialist on the team's return.

"We will then have an idea of the length of time needed for rehabilitation," she said.

The Highlanders lost 16-23 to the Bulls but return home with nine points from three matches in South Africa -- including victories over the Cheetahs and Stormers -- and will be hurt by loss of Evans, who has been instrumental in their fine early season form.

After coming away with a bonus point from the Loftus loss, and being in sixth place on the standings, the Highlanders are in a sound position with a good home run to come.

They face the Sharks at Carisbrook on Saturday.

- NZPA