Long-term.

Munster coach Stephen Larkham has revealed that lock RG Snyman could be out of action for anywhere between “six and twelve months” in what is a crippling blow to the southern province.

The southern province confirmed yesterday that Snyman sustained an ACL tear in the opening minutes of Saturday night’s Guinness PRO14 encounter against Leinster following a scan.

The lock has met with the specialist next to discuss surgery and management but faces a long road to recovery having played just seven minutes of action for his new club before going off injured.

“It’s devastating for RG,” Munster coach Stephen Larkham said today.

“He’s come over here with a real purpose to be part of this team and he’s missed out on that opportunity now at least for the next, however long the rehab takes.

“It’s devastating for him but also really upsetting for the rest of the team as well. He’s trained with us now for a good period of time and we certainly saw how good the guy is.

“In terms of a timeframe, he saw a surgeon last night but we still haven’t got a definitive [answer] from him but it’s a typical ACL so it could be anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

“It really depends on the rehab.”

But in a boost for the province, fellow second-rows Tadhg Beirne and Fineen Wycherly looksset to be fit and available for selection against Connacht on Sunday.

“Tadhg’s been training with his, he’s trained well,” Larkham added.

“He’s definitely in contention for this weekend. Fineen Wycherly is also back in contention. He’s back fully training aswell.