Wallabies star Len Ikitau facing lengthy layoff after shoulder surgery setback

The 27-year-old was hurt in the closing stages of Exeter's hard-fought 30-24 Premiership victory over Saracens at the StoneX Stadium last weekend. Medical assessments have since confirmed that an operation is needed, ruling Ikitau out throughout the festive period and into the early months of the new year.

Chiefs director of rugby Rob Baxter said the club expects Ikitau to be sidelined for around three months, with a return pencilled in after the Premiership Rugby Cup window, which overlaps with the Guinness Six Nations.

"In a tackle against Saracens, Len picked up the injury and it's going to require surgery," Baxter explained. "The good news is that we can get him in for the operation pretty quickly, but unfortunately it does mean he will miss a block of games over Christmas and into the cup competitions."

Ikitau's absence is a major blow for Exeter, who currently sit second in the Premiership. The Wallabies centre has been one of the standout performers of the season, forming a strong midfield partnership with England international Henry Slade and quickly justifying his status as the club's most high-profile summer signing.

Since arriving at Sandy Park on a one-season deal, Ikitau has made five appearances across the Premiership and EPCR Challenge Cup, scoring his first Chiefs try in the recent win over the Cheetahs. His form also followed a busy international season, featuring for Australia against the British and Irish Lions and in the Rugby Championship, and earning a place in the World Rugby Dream Team.