Jamison Gibson-Park will miss Leinster's URC opener this weekend against the Lions, as the club have issued an injury update on the star scrum-half.
Leo Cullen’s side will be aiming to make it three URC titles in a row as they look to retain their crown after beating the Bulls in the previous two finals.
Despite Glasgow Warriors finishing top of the regular season last year, Leinster came through the play-offs with relative ease to lift the trophy once again.
The Dubliners will, however, begin their title defence without Jamison Gibson-Park, who has been ruled out of their opening South African tour with a minor groin injury.
The 34-year-old Ireland scrum-half is reportedly being carefully managed to limit his workload.
He has to ensure he remains fresh for what is expected to be a demanding season at both club and international level.
With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, Leinster will need to manage his minutes.
Cullen has still named the vast majority of his Ireland internationals in the squad travelling to South Africa, where they will face two teams while on tour.
Leinster begin their URC campaign against the Lions at Ellis Park on September 26 before taking on the Sharks in Durban a week later.
There is some positive news elsewhere on the injury front, with Andrew Porter returning to full training this week after recovering from a calf injury.
Tommy O’Brien has also returned to full training following a groin problem.
Joey Carbery will increase his training involvement this week as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury.
Cormac Foley remains unavailable with a calf injury, while Jordan Larmour is sidelined with a calf problem.
Diarmuid Mangan is also unavailable due to a foot injury.
James Culhane is still recovering from a hamstring issue.
There are no further updates on Jack Boyle, RG Snyman, Caelan Doris and Paddy McCarthy.
All four remain out with longer-term injuries of varying lengths.
