Bath have confirmed that talisman Taulupe Faletau fractured his forearm during their clash with Wasps in the Champions Cup.
The Wales international had just returned from another broken arm that ruled him out of Wales’ autumn schedule.
Faletau’s injury means that Wales head coach Warren Gatland will have to explore his options in the back row, with Dan Lydiate set to miss the start of the tournament and Ellis Jenkins in a race to be fit for the Rugby World Cup.
The British and Irish Lion is expected to be out of action for eight weeks with a small chance of being able to feature in the final round on March 16 where Wales host Ireland.
Josh Navidi missed the Autumn tests with a knee injury and could be an option to step into the number eight shirt for Wales. Gatland may call open Ross Moriaty to take the mantle after his return from a concussion injury.
Faletau was considered a certain pick for Gatland, who will now have to rely on his limited options to make an impact.
Injuries in the back row could open the opportunity for players such as Thomas Young and to impress Gatland on the international stage.
MATT WALKER
