Hurricanes' star out for season

The Hurricanes' number-one scrumhalf TJ Perenara's successful 2012 season came to a dramatic end on Friday when he fractured his ankle in the 36-7 win over the Reds at the Sunshine Coast.

The 20-year-old from Titahi Bay is expected to be out of the game for four to six months, depending on his recovery.

The injury happened in the 78th minute of the match when the scrumhalf landed awkwardly in a tackle while scoring a try.

Perenara had x-rays following the match which revealed the fractured left ankle.

He underwent surgery in Brisbane on Saturday and will return home at the end of the week.

"It is devastating for TJ to have suffered this serious injury when he has been in such good form for the Hurricanes this season," coach Mark Hammett said.

"But TJ is a focussed and dedicated player so we know he will work hard in his recovery to come back better and stronger."

Chris Eaton and Frae Wilson will now be the Hurricanes scrumhalf for the remainder of the season.

"And like TJ took his opportunity this season when we lost Chris Smylie through injury, it's a chance for Chris and Frae to now step up," he added.

Eaton has 25 caps for the Hurricanes including 11 this season and 2 tries in 2012. Eaton started Friday's match and crossed the line for a third time in three consecutive games.

Frae Wilson is yet to debut for the Hurricanes.