The Highlanders' second home loss 30 - 27 to the Crusaders on Saturday has been followed by more grim injury news.
Openside specialist James Lentjes dislocated his elbow in the first minute, and could be out for anything from six weeks to the rest of the season.
He will join fellow No.7s Dan Pryor and Shane Christie on the sideline for Saturday's match against the Blues in Auckland.
Highlanders fullback and captain Ben Smith missed Saturday's game and it is unclear when he will be fit after suffering concussion in the season‑opening loss to the Chiefs.
Highlanders will face Blues at 6:35 this Saturday while Reds will play Crusaders at 8:45pm.
Meanwhile Chiefs will take on Hurricanes at 6:35pm this Friday while Brumbies will take on the Force at 8:45pm.
Source: TVNZ
