Hurricanes interim skipper Conrad Smith. Photo / Getty Images
The Hurricanes will be missing interim skipper Conrad Smith for their second round Super 14 rugby match against the Chiefs in Hamilton on Friday.
Smith, who will most likely be replaced by former All Blacks skipper Tana Umaga at centre, took a heavy knock to his left eye
in the 16-25 defeat to the Reds on Saturday.
The team said in a statement today Smith, who was being monitored closely, will not be available this week.
This is the second year in a row that Smith has been injured early in the championship.
Last year, he was forced to sit out the whole championship after his right leg was broken in a tackle while playing a second round match against Perth's Western Force in New Plymouth.
The Hurricanes' stock of props will also be tested this week.
Tim Fairbrother is expected to be out of action for a month after dislocating his left shoulder against the Reds.
He will have a scan on the shoulder for which he had surgery last year.
John Schwalger experienced stiffening in his neck during the first half and was replaced following advice from the Hurricanes medical staff.
The team said the injury has responded to treatment and he may be available for selection.
Second five-eighth Ma'a Nonu, who left the field temporarily with a cut to the head, and Luke Andrews, who had a gash above his left eye stitched after the match, were both rated fit to play the Chiefs.
- NZPA
