Ruan Combrinck successfully underwent a shoulder operation on Wednesday, but is set to miss the start of the 2017 Super Rugby season.

Combrinck was a star performer for the Lions throughout their 2016 campaign, with the Johannesburg-based side progressing all the way to the final.

The 26-year-old also starred for the Boks on debut against Ireland in June, while he went on to start in six Tests after that, including last Saturday's encounter against Wales.

Combrinck featured for the full 80 minutes, but suffered a fracture in his shoulder joint during the Test.

He will be out of action for at least the next four months, with the Lions set to kick off their Super Rugby campaign against the Cheetahs on 25 February.

Photo: Martin Hunter/AFP Photo