Rugby: Lavea out for six weeks

Injury will sideline Tasesa Lavea from the Super 14 rugby series for at least six weeks.

The first five-eighth ruptured medial ligaments in his knee when debuting for the Chiefs off the bench in the 16-21 loss to the Brumbies in Hamilton last Saturday.

Coach Ian Foster today said the timing of Lavea's injury was disappointing because Lavea, a draft player from Auckland, was starting to understand the Chiefs' game and was looking to add something to the backline.

Lavea is not Foster's only injury concern.

Midfield back Richard Kahui and lock Keith Robinson are also unlikely to be available for the home match against the Hurricanes on Friday night while loose forward Sione Lauaki is still out with a broken wrist.

- NZPA