Henderson (l) was a British Lion in 2001 (Getty)

Esher have lost veteran centre Rob Henderson for the opening stages of the season after he underwent knee surgery.

The 35-year-old now faces 10 weeks on the sidelines.

Director of rugby Mike Schmid said: "It's very disappointing to lose somebody like Rob so close to the start of the new season."

Esher will now look to Toby Clouson, Chuck Baumberg and Seb Jewell to compete for Henderson's place for the opening game with Exeter.