Head Coach Danny Wilson has confirmed that hooker Matthew Rees will miss the opening weekend of the new Guinness PRO12 season after undergoing an emergency operation.
Former Wales international Rees, who re-signed with Cardiff Blues in the summer and who has made 34 appearances for the region, had surgery to remove his appendix at the weekend.
However, Wilson revealed several other key players were now returning to fitness and pushing for a call-up to face Zebre at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on Sunday (kick-off 2.30pm).
“Many of the boys are coming back to fitness now. Lou Reed is one of those who is getting closer but it now quite ready yet,” he said. “We are looking forward to them being back with us.
“Matthew (Rees) won’t be available after he had his appendix removed last minute. It came on last weekend, out of the blue and bit of an emergency so he won’t be available to us.
“We’re all looking forward to the start of the new season. It’s an exciting time and it’s a home game and we want to win every time we play at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park.”
Tickets remain on sale NOW for the Guinness PRO12 opener with Zebre Rugby at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park. Call the Ticket Office on 02920 302030 or click HERE to buy online.