Larkham has cancer removed, out at least 3 weeks

Wallaby first five-eighth Stephen Larkham has undergone surgery to remove a cancerous growth on his left leg and will miss at least the next three Super 12 rugby matches for reigning champions the ACT Brumbies.

Larkham stayed behind while the Brumbies flew to South Africa at the weekend and had an operation in Canberra to remove the growth behind his left knee.

A Brumbies spokseman said Larkham first became aware of the spot on his leg in 2003.

He had a biopsy done four weeks ago when concerned by its growth and the decision to operate was taken two weeks ago.

The surgery was done the day after Larkham helped the Brumbies extend their Super 12 season start to 3-0 with a win over the Stormers at Canberra Stadium on Friday night.

The Brumbies have fellow Wallaby Matt Giteau returning from injury this week and it's likely he'll take over at five-eighth in the Super 12 clash with the Cats in Johannesburg on Saturday after missing the first three rounds.

Larkham was to speak at a media conference later today.

- AAP