Sale Sharks may have to play the first leg of their European Challenge Cup semi-final against Connacht without the services of England captain Jason Robinson.
The fullback - who raised the Parker Pen Challenge Cup with Sale in 2002 - suffered a torn ligament in his right thumb during his country's 19-13 RBS Six Nations defeat to Ireland.
Robinson will now miss the final two games in the championship, and the injury makes him a doubt for the cup clash against Connacht on April 2. (kick off 13:00)
Robinson said: "This is very disappointing for me as this means I miss England's last two games in the Six Nations at Twickenham and two games for my club, Sale Sharks.
"But I'm looking to be back playing very early in April."
With the first leg of the tie against Connacht in the first weekend in April, Sale medics will be working around the click to return 'Billy Whizz' to full fitness.
The return leg takes place three weeks later on Sunday, April 24. (kick-off 13:00)