Chiefs flanker Mitchell Karpik will miss the entire 2016 Super Rugby season after picking up an ACL injury.

Karpik ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during the Chiefs' pre-season fixture against the Waratahs in Rotorua on Friday night. He is expected to undergo surgery soon, and will then be out of commission for six to nine months. 

Coach Dave Rennie expressed disappointment over the injury. 

'Mitch is an outstanding young man and we're bitterly disappointed for him,' said Rennie. 'His debut in the Chiefs jersey in Friday's game was impressive and further reinforced the hugely promising future he has ahead of him. He has a great deal of maturity and an excellent work ethic which will serve him well as he overcomes his knee injury.'

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