Captain Matt Hodgson will miss the opening rounds of the Western Force's Super Rugby season due to a hamstring injury.
Hodgson suffered the injury in his side's win over the Asia Pacific Dragons in Perth on Saturday.
He is expected to return to action after the Force's bye in Week Eight of the competition.
Coach Michael Foley was confident the Force could cover for Hodgson's absence in the meantime.
"This is obviously disappointing for 'Hodgo' but we'll take a conservative approach with his rehab to ensure he doesn't re-injure," Foley said.
"In Matt's absence, we have a number of quality back-rowers capable of stepping up, including Chris Alcock, Brynard Stander and Kane Koteka.
"With regard to the leadership of the squad, we have a Standards Group that will continue to provide a lead, and a captain will be appointed in due course from within that group."
The Force leadership group consists of Hodgson, Pek Cowan, Patrick Dellit, Kyle Godwin, Alby Mathewson, Ben McCalman, Luke Morahan and Sam Wykes
The Force begins its Super Rugby season against the Waratahs in Sydney on February 15.
Share
