Rugby: Calf injury snags hopes of Gibbes' return

Hopes that the Chiefs would have inspirational captain Jono Gibbes back for Saturday night's Super 14 match against the Reds in Brisbane were dealt a blow at training yesterday.

The lock again damaged the calf muscle that has sidelined him for the past four games and is unlikely to be fit.

The injury-ravaged franchise will also be without lock Keith Robinson and centre Richard Kahui, who are battling calf and shoulder injuries respectively, and flanker Steven Bates is touch and go with a dodgy ankle.

The team is due to be named tomorrow.