The All Black and Hurricanes lock Jason Eaton is likely to miss the rest of the Super rugby season after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during Saturday's 33-18 victory over the South African side the Lions.
In a statement the franchise says Eaton will require surgery which will put him out of the game for six months.
Eaton suffered a similar injury to his left knee three years ago, forcing causing him to miss the All Blacks' World Cup campaign that year.
The Winger Tamati Ellison and centre Conrad Smith also won't travel with the side to South Africa today, for this weekend's match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.
Ellison suffered a shoulder injury in latest game and Smith sprained a ligament in his right thumb.
Winger Hosea Gear who's recovering from knee surgery is expected to be available in a month.
