Scotland's autumn Test plans have been dented after Glasgow full-back Stuart Hogg was ruled out for up to three months following ankle surgery.
The 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 lined up for Gregor Townsend’s side against Wales, Fiji, South Africa and Argentina.
Hogg said: "I'm gutted to be missing some important games for Glasgow Warriors and Scotland over the next few months.
“My focus just now is working hard and getting fit, so I can play my part in what is a long season.
"I'd like to thank the medical staff at Glasgow Warriors and BMI Ross Hall Hospital for all their care and support."
Hogg had travelled with the Warriors squad for their Guinness PRO14 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.
Scotstoun head coach Dave Rennie said: "Hoggy injured his ankle in the game against Munster and then flew to South Africa with the squad for our Guinness PRO14 matches against the Cheetahs and the Kings.
“He didn’t train over here as it often takes a few days for the swelling to go down and he returned home when we realised it was more serious than we thought.
“It’s frustrating for him. He got himself in extremely good nick for the start of the season and was arguably one of the best players on the park in the opening two games.
“But it’s a long old season, he’s a resilient man and we’re looking forward to seeing him back out there soon.”
