Blues captain Jerome Kaino is set for a month on the sideline after injuring his shoulder during the 25-25 draw with the Reds in Brisbane.
All Blacks flanker Kaino has reportedly sprained his AC joint and will take three to four weeks to recover.
He received treatment for the injury early in Saturday’s game and was forced off midway through the second half, when medical staff placed his right arm in a sling.
The Blues have a bye next week before their sixth-round game against the Jaguares in Auckland.
Hooker James Parsons assumed the captaincy when Kaino missed the season-opening game against the Highlanders because of suspension.