Connacht's star centre ruled out until mid-February

NEWS: Connacht has lost one of their stars through injury with the news that their young centre Hugh Gavin will undergo surgery.

They host the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship at home on Saturday.

Gavin suffered an ankle injury on his second senior provincial appearance, against the Dragons at the end of October.

The 20-year-old, who starred during the recent Emerging Ireland tour will be out of action until mid-February.

The good news is that the club welcome back Pete Wilkins, hooker Dave Heffernan, and back Santi Cordero, who were on international duty with Ireland and Argentina.

Peter Dooley (calf) is still busy with rehabilitation after a calf strain and is aiming for a return to selection for the Christmas interpros, while JJ Hanrahan (knee) continues his long-term rehab and remains on track to return in mid-January.

Bundee Aki, Mack Hansen, Finlay Bealham, and Cian Prendergast remain in the Ireland camp this week ahead of Andy Farrell’s side’s meeting with Australia on Saturday.

Connacht, coached by Pete Wilkins, are fifth in the URC table with three wins from six games, while the South African visitors are in third spot.