Glasgow Warriors centre Peter Horne sustained knee and ankle injuries during the Munster game, and after review his ankle requires surgical repair at BMI Ross Hall Hospital. He is now expected to be out of action for up to 16 weeks which means Vern Cotter will need to look for a new backup 10 for the Six Nations. Matt Scott’s chances of inclusion just increased though.
Winger Rory Hughes sustained a knee injury and will also undergo surgery at BMI Ross Hall Hospital. He is expected to remain on the sidelines for up to eight weeks.
In slightly better news, Adam Ashe has stepped up his comeback from a hip injury and is finally being integrated back into training with the squad.
Second-rows Tjiuee Uanivi, Scott Cummings and Greg Peterson, along with long-lost utility centre Richie Vernon are progressing well with White Sands rehab following shoulder injuries – yes, all of them – and are working on fitness with the club’s strength and conditioning team, ahead of a return early in the New Year.
Winger Leonardo Sarto is progressing well under the guidance of the medical team following shoulder surgery last month.
Warren Gatland has announced his backroom team for the 2017 Lions team, but without either Joe Schmidt or Gregor Townsend who were apparently consulted but turned it down. An as yet unnamed attack specialist will work with (or under), um, Rob Howley alongside Steve Borthwick (forwards) and Andy Farrell (defence).
Oh, and Craig Joubert has announced his retirement. He’ll become Referee Talent Development Coach at World Rugby.