Vuna blow for Rebels

Rebels wing Cooper Vuna is out for the next six weeks, after injuring his shoulder in last Saturday's trial.

Scans confirmed Vuna fractured his scapula in the early stages of the North Hobart loss (16-24) against the Waratahs.

At this stage, the fracture will not require surgery - only rest, and should see him return to the field in six weeks.

Vuna was disappointed with the findings, although optimistic about his time on the sidelines.

"Initially I predicted the worst, so to see myself coming back into contention early on in the season is a real relief. I'll be working hard to be back firing ready to go for my teammates," he said.

Rebels coach Damien Hill was disappointed with the news, although did back the depth in his young Rebels squad.

"It's a big disappointment for the team. Cooper has had a great preseason and we could have done without this hurdle," said Hill.

"On the positive side we have a number of first year players that impressed in our first trial and one of them will now get an opportunity sooner than they may have expected."

The Rebels have one trial match remaining, kicking off against the Hurricanes on Saturday at Simonds Stadium in Geelong.