The Chiefs have suffered another big injury blow ahead of their trip to face the Sunwolves in Japan, with versatile forward Mitchell Brown ruled out for up to nine months.
Brown injured his right knee in the side's win over the Bulls on Friday night and will be required to undergo surgery.
The 24‑year‑old loose forward, who had been starting at lock for the injured Dominic Bird, had already missed the majority of the Chiefs' opening two games.
He sustained a concussion six minutes into their season opener which kept him sidelined for the clash against the Blues on 2nd March.
Michael Allardice looks the likely option to move into the starting line up alongside Brodie Retallick this weekend, although Taleni Seu could slot in at lock if he recovers from a thigh issue that ruled him out against the Bulls.
The Chiefs will take on the Sunwolves at 4.15pm Saturday.
