Exeter centre Tamati Tua is set to miss much of the upcoming season after suffering an Achilles tendon injury.
The 27-year-old New Zealander was hurt in training last week and has undergone surgery.
Tua scored two tries in 19 appearances for the Chiefs last season having moved to Sandy Park from Super Rugby’s Brumbies last summer.
“Timescale-wise, these types of injuries, an Achilles rupture, can vary but realistically we’re looking at a six to nine month return period,” Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter told the club website., external
“Everybody is disappointed for him as he was having a great pre-season, looking in fantastic shape, so it’s one of those unfortunate situations.
“The plan is to help him work hard through the rehab period to get him back as soon as possible.
“It’s our responsibility to try to make the season as long as possible to try to give him the best chance of playing this season.”
Meanwhile England ‘A’ forward Richard Capstick is likely to be out until November after straining knee ligaments.
Capstick, who played in every Exeter league game last season, was also hurt in training.
“Richard’s injury happened relatively late in the session last week when he got caught awkwardly in a tackle,” Baxter said.
“His knee won’t require an operation, so he’ll be conservatively managed over a period of time before being allowed to return to play.”