Just when the Wallabies' Len Ikitau was hitting his stride with Exeter, the rugby gods have thrown a wrench in the works. The center star faces a three-month hiatus following a shoulder injury that demands surgery. This setback came during a triumphant clash against Saracens last week, sidelining him till possibly the end of the Six Nations in March. It's a tough break for the 27-year-old who's been dazzling on the field since his stint against the British & Irish Lions earlier this year.
Ikitau, who’s been a revelation in midfield alongside England's Henry Slade, helped rocket Exeter to second place in the Premiership. His synergy with Slade turned heads and proved critical for the Chiefs as they navigated the competitive waters of the league. Since joining on a one-season deal, Ikitau's made five appearances across the Premiership and EPCR Challenge Cup, even notching his first try for the team in a recent win over the Cheetahs.
"The good news is that we can get him in for the operation pretty quickly, though unfortunately it does mean he will miss the block of games over the festive period and into the cup competitions in the new year,"
shared Exeter's director of rugby, Rob Baxter.
Baxter didn't hide his disappointment about Ikitau's injury, emphasizing the impact he's had on the team.
"It’s very unfortunate for Len, who has been playing out of his skin for us and was in outstanding form. It’s a shame for him and a shame for us because he’s been an important part of what we’ve achieved so far this season."
While the Chiefs will certainly miss Ikitau's presence on the field, the team and fans alike will be eagerly counting down the days until their midfield maestro can lace up his boots and dazzle the rugby world once more. For now, it's a waiting game, and all eyes will be on how Exeter navigates this challenging stretch without one of their key players.
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Just when the Wallabies' Len Ikitau was hitting his stride with Exeter, the rugby gods have thrown a wrench in the works. The center star faces a three-month hiatus following a shoulder injury that demands surgery. This setback came during a triumphant clash against Saracens last week, sidelining him till possibly the end of the Six Nations in March. It's a tough break for the 27-year-old who's been dazzling on the field since his stint against the British & Irish Lions earlier this year.
Ikitau, who’s been a revelation in midfield alongside England's Henry Slade, helped rocket Exeter to second place in the Premiership. His synergy with Slade turned heads and proved critical for the Chiefs as they navigated the competitive waters of the league. Since joining on a one-season deal, Ikitau's made five appearances across the Premiership and EPCR Challenge Cup, even notching his first try for the team in a recent win over the Cheetahs.
"The good news is that we can get him in for the operation pretty quickly, though unfortunately it does mean he will miss the block of games over the festive period and into the cup competitions in the new year,"
shared Exeter's director of rugby, Rob Baxter.Baxter didn't hide his disappointment about Ikitau's injury, emphasizing the impact he's had on the team.
"It’s very unfortunate for Len, who has been playing out of his skin for us and was in outstanding form. It’s a shame for him and a shame for us because he’s been an important part of what we’ve achieved so far this season."
While the Chiefs will certainly miss Ikitau's presence on the field, the team and fans alike will be eagerly counting down the days until their midfield maestro can lace up his boots and dazzle the rugby world once more. For now, it's a waiting game, and all eyes will be on how Exeter navigates this challenging stretch without one of their key players.