Sean Maitland has played his last game for Glasgow Warriors – and faces a race to be fit for the Rugby World Cup.
Head coach Gregor Townsend revealed that the New Zealand-born winger has had a shoulder operation.
He reported: “Sean Maitland got some tough news last week when it became clear that his shoulder would require surgery.
“The operation at Spire Murrayfield Hospital was a success and he’s targeting to be back for the Rugby World Cup.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Sean for his contribution to the club, he’s been an excellent player for us and we wish him well at the Rugby World Cup and also next season at London Irish.”
Meanwhile, captain Al Kellock and hooker Dougie Hall will start for the Warriors in tonight’s crucial GUINNESS PRO12 match against Cardiff Blues at Scotstoun (kick-off 7.35pm and live on BBC ALBA).
Both players have announced that they will retire from rugby at the end of the season.
Peter Murchie comes in at full-back in place of Stuart Hogg, while Tommy Seymour and DTH van der Merwe continue on either wing.
Peter Horne switches from fly-half and will wear the No.12 jersey, with Richie Vernon moving from inside to outside centre.
After pulling out of the Leinster game with an ankle injury, Finn Russell returns at stand-off and makes his first Warriors appearance since late-January, while Henry Pyrgos replaces Niko Matawalu at scrum-half.
In the pack Fijian international Jerry Yanuyanutawa comes in at loose-head in place of Alex Allan, Hall starts at hooker and Mike Cusack replaces Zander Fagerson at tight-head.
Lee Jones could also feature, after returning from Scotland 7s duty in Hong Kong and Tokyo.
Townsend added: “This is another big game for the club, with just four matches left in the regular season, as we chase a play-off spot.
“Cardiff Blues always give us a tough game and we’re well aware of the challenge they will pose.
“It’s great to see some players back from injury with Gordon (Reid), Jon (Welsh) and Duncan (Weir) on the bench, after working really hard to get back to full fitness.
“Tomorrow will be a special night for Al (Kellock) and Dougie (Hall), who have announced that they will retire at the end of the season and this is an opportunity for our supporters to join us in celebrating their careers.”