Perpignan have revealed that Scotland flanker Jamie Ritchie will be out of action for two months after suffering a tibial plateau fracture in the Calcutta Cup victory over England in round two of the Guinness Six Nations.
Having made a try-scoring return to the side after missing the round one defeat to Italy, the former Scotland captain picked up the injury moments before half time at Murrayfield and was replaced by Matt Fagerson at the break.
Scotland revealed that the flanker, alongside Jack Dempsey and Jamie Dobie, had returned to their club for further assessment, and the Top 14 outfit have now confirmed the extent of the injury.
The positive for the 29-year-old is that he will not require surgery on the injury, although this will obviously rule him out of the remainder of the Six Nations and a large portion of the Top 14 season, with Perpignan, currently sat in 13th place, fighting for survival.
He will likely be available for the denouement of Perpignan’s domestic campaign, where they are on course to feature in the ‘Access Match’ against the runner-up of Pro D2.
“After thorough examinations and specialist advice, surgery is not necessary,” Perpignan shared in a medial update this week.
“Jamie has a tibial plateau fracture. He begins his rehabilitation phase today. A return to competition is planned in approximately two months, subject to the favourable progress of his recovery.
“In this context, the club sends its captain its best wishes for a speedy recovery. USAP and Jamie Ritchie will make no further statements until his return to the field, in order to guarantee him the best possible conditions for rest and rehabilitation.
“We thank all our supporters for their support and patience, and remind you that every precaution is being taken to ensure Jamie Ritchie’s gradual and safe return to competition.”
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