 James was set to play a key Ospreys role during the Six Nations |
Wales and Ospreys prop Paul James faces three-to-four months out with a disc problem, joining hooker Barry Williams in needing corrective back surgery. "It is disappointing, our many injuries have put a huge strain on the squad," said Ospreys manager Derwyn Jones.
"It is now down to the remaining boys to show the type of positive attitude we expect from Osprey players."
James, 23, who has one cap, would have played a major part for the region with Adam and Duncan Jones on Wales duty.
Cai Griffiths and Andrew Millward are the only other props on the squad rota.
Celtic League champions the Ospreys have had a torrid season with injuries.
Brent Cockbain (hamstring), Ryan Jones (shoulder reconstruction) and David Bishop (fractured kneecap) are all out for the season.
A host of other injuries and suspensions have contributed to exits at the group stages of the Heineken Cup and Powergen Cup.
They are one-from-bottom in the Celtic League, the lowest of the Welsh regions, and face a campaign-long battle to win Heineken Cup qualification for next season.
MMIX
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