A rash of injuries to key players looks set to open the way for Jarryd Hayne to play big minutes when the San Francisco 49ers take on the Baltimore Ravens.

The 49ers’ top running back Carlos Hyde couldn’t complete Thursday’s practice session and walked off the field gingerly.

“I can’t say that one way or the other,” replied Geep Chryst, who had been asked before practice if Hyde would play against the Ravens.

The team’s second running back Reggie Bush aggravated a calf injury in last weekend’s loss to the New York Giants and seems unlikely to play against the Ravens on Sunday at the 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium.

That leaves Hayne and another rookie running back, Mike Davis, who was dropped for the Giants’ game.

Hayne has made the most of his limited opportunities at running back and came within four yards from a touchdown on Sunday.

Davis has been ineffective with the ball, but is considered more reliable in a key aspect of the position – protecting quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

Hayne, who seems to have secured the punt return job, could also be given the kick return role with another injury prone teammate – Bruce Ellington – listed with a calf injury.

The 49ers and Ravens are desperate for a win, with both teams struggling with just one win and four losses.