Ben Thomas will miss Wales' opening Nations Championship games, but Taulupe Faletau is on course to return before November.
Wales have been dealt a midfield setback ahead of the Nations Championship. Centre Ben Thomas is set to miss the opening fixtures of the tournament, leaving the coaching staff with decisions to make in the backline.
Thomas has been a useful option in Wales' midfield, and his absence at the start of the competition will test the depth of the squad. Someone else will have to step into the channels and take on the playmaking and defensive duties he would normally share.
There is good news at the other end of the injury list. Taulupe Faletau is expected to be back in action before November, a timely boost for a side that will want his ball-carrying and experience in the back row once the competition gathers pace.
Wales will hope the early shuffle in the centres does not cost them momentum, with Faletau's expected return giving them something to look forward to as the Nations Championship unfolds.
