The Western Force have suffered a major blow with lock Izack Rodda set to miss the start of the season with a foot injury.
Rodda picked up the knock during last week's trial against the Fijian Drua, with the club yet to confirm a return date.
Catch every game of Super Rugby Pacific LIVE on Stan Sport. Start your Free Sport Trial Now
"Izack Rodda has sustained an injury on his right foot during the pre-season match against the Fijian Drua," the club said in a statement.
"This is the same foot Rodda had surgery on mid last year.
"He is currently unavailable for selection with a return to play timeframe developed within the coming days."
It comes as a frustrating setback for Rodda, injuring the same foot that kept him out of the Wallabies' 2022 International season.
In a cruel development, Rodda spoke to Rugby.com.au after the match where he suffered the injury, explaining how pleasing it was to return after the extended layoff.
“It’s getting there. It’s great to have had two hitouts,” he said post-game, unaware of the further damage he had caused at the time.
“The foot still has a little ways to go but it’s good to get the body out there, feel it in the lungs and enjoy some footy again after a long break.
“The foot is just getting used to the movements of rugby again and strengthening in the contact moments after a lot of straight line running in rehab.”
The Force will likely rely on new recruits Jeremy Williams (Waratahs) and Felix Kalapu (USA) to fill his void ahead of their season opener on Saturday against the Melbourne Rebels.
