There is no timeline as yet on the return date for Connacht duo David Hawkshaw and Jarrad Butler after they suffered injuries in last weekend's loss to Leinster.
Hawkshaw (ankle) and Butler (finger) are ruled out for Saturday's home URC encounter with the Sharks at the Sportsground, a fixture described as a 'must-win' for the westerners by their director of rugby Andy Friend after their latest defeat with time running out on Connacht's bid to make the top eight and a place in the play-offs.
Adam Byrne also remains sidelined as he rehabs a calf injury but is aiming to return for the Challenge Cup clash with Newcastle in two weeks.
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However better news for the province is that prop Jack Aungier has recovered from a neck injury and is available and Bundee Aki is also expected to play after missing the Leinster clash as he was rested under the IRFU player welfare programme.
"The important thing is how we manage Bundee and work out how to get the best out of him over the next month ahead of the Six Nations," said Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins.
Aki's Ireland colleagues Mack Hansen and Finlay Bealham missed the 47-12 defeat due to illness, as did Josh Murphy, but the trio are ready to return, which is another boost to a squad in need of a victory after back to back interpro defeats.
There is no further update on longer term absentees Paul Boyle and Gavin Thornbury, who picked up serious injuries a couple of weeks ago.
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