Scotland’s Test plans have been dealt a blow after Glasgow full-back Stuart Hogg was ruled out for up to three months following ankle surgery.
The British and Irish Lions star is facing a recovery period of 10 to 12 weeks after suffering the injury against Munster earlier this month.
And that is likely to see him sit out all four of the November internationals against Wales, Fiji, South Africa and Argentina.
“I’m gutted to be missing some important games for Glasgow Warriors and Scotland over the next few months,” said Hogg.
“My focus just now is working hard and getting fit, so I can play my part in what is a long season.”
Hogg had travelled with the Glasgow squad for their Guinness Pro 14 double-header against the Cheetahs and Southern Kings this week and hoped to play some part in the second clash with the Kings in Port Elizabeth.
But he was forced to return to Scotland after it became clear his ankle injury was worse than first feared. – Agence France-Presse