Elton Flatley will play no part in Australia's two-Test series against Scotland or the World Cup final rematch with England after breaking his arm. The Queensland captain was injured in the second half of the Reds' 41-5 victory over Scotland in Brisbane.
Flatley's fears were confirmed by a specialist and he is expected to be in a cast for the next six weeks.
"I'm very disappointed, but that's footie for you," he said. "There's no point feeling sorry for myself."
He added: "The good news is that I don't require surgery so hopefully I will be back for some of the Tri-Nations at least."
Australia coach Eddie Jones will name a replacement for Flatley on Monday with Drew Mitchell the likely choice.
Nathan Sharpe was also injured soon after half-time against Scotland and needs to have stitches on an eye problem, though he will be fit for the first Test against Scotland in Melbourne on 13 June.
"I need to have stitches in my eyeball, which sounds pretty horrific, but which should only keep me out of contact training for a week," he said.
"I have been told that I will be able to play against the Scots and am just thankful that I didn't suffer more serious damage."
Australia play England in Brisbane on 26 June and then meet the Pacific Islanders before the Tri-Nations in July.
MMIX
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