Wales captain Dewi Lake is at risk of missing out on the Six Nations after undergoing bicep surgery.
The injury occurred during training with the Ospreys before Christmas, and region coach Mark Jones was able to give a more accurate prognosis on Monday. He revealed that the 25-year-old hooker could be forced out for as long as 12 weeks, which would mean he would be ruled out of the entire Six Nations.
The final match between Wales and England is scheduled for March 15 in Cardiff, but Lake, who is also in contention to be selected by the British & Irish Lions, could be fit before then.
“I think 12 weeks was the limit,” Jones said of the player's expected recovery time. “When we get to know Dewi and look at the quality of rehabilitation that is currently taking place, all we know is that the surgery went well and there is nothing that will prevent him from achieving that goal. There is no.
“Devi has a great mindset and is a great professional. I texted him over Christmas and he's trying to get it across at the lowest price possible.”
Warren Gatland's side, on a record-breaking 12-game losing streak, begin their Six Nations campaign against France in Paris on January 31, but hooker could be a problem position.
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