KEY POINTS:
Tasesa Lavea's Super 14 rugby season has ended before it started.
The Chiefs first five-eighth was today ruled out of the competition because of injury.
He suffered a torn foot ligament during a pre-season game against the Highlanders last weekend.
Lavea, 28, will undergo surgery next Tuesday.
Following the operation it is expected his foot will be immobilised for about six weeks.
Chiefs management today said Lavea was not expected to be able to put his full weight on the foot for three months.
They said a decision on a replacement for Lavea would be made next week.
- NZPA
