The NSW Waratahs can look forward to facing the Hurricanes without destructive forward Ardie Savea, but the defending Super Rugby champions are expected to welcome back three other powerhouse ball carriers.
Arguably the form forward through the first six rounds, Savea is unlikely to face the Waratahs in Wellington on Friday because of a calf injury.
There were fears the 23-year-old could be out for considerably longer when he fell awkwardly late in the 34-15 defeat of the Reds in Brisbane on Saturday.
However, assistant coach Jason Holland told journalists improvement came swiftly.
"Ardie has pulled up pretty well, considering, but he has a niggly calf and is pretty doubtful for this week," Holland said.
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Savea had played nearly every minute this season, excelling at both openside flanker and No.8 with his powerful running and staunch defence.
More good news for the defending champions this week is the likely availability of captain Dane Coles, winger Cory Jane and lock Vaea Fifita.
Hooker Coles didn't travel to Brisbane because of a minor knee injury.
He is likely to start on Friday while veteran Jane (neck) and fringe All Black squad member Fifita (ankle) are poised to make their first appearances after suffering pre-season injuries.
The latter two could be bench options.
"It is all encouraging news for those three. They will obviously be used in different ways, but they are all good to go," Holland said.
