The Chiefs' injury woes have intensified and, just one game into their season, their bye week looks like it can't come quick enough.

Chiefs coach Colin Cooper confirmed utility back Tim Nanai‑Williams was gone for the season, requiring surgery on a shoulder he injured.

Then there's newly instated co‑captain and fullback Charlie Ngatai and lock Dominic Bird, who left AMI Stadium gingerly, with Cooper guessing each would be out for a couple of weeks.

A trio of players are also going through concussion protocols, with loose forward Mitch Brown and bench backs Marty McKenzie and Sean Wainui all taking knocks on the night.

A decision on if someone would take over Ngatai's co‑captaincy duties was still being worked through, as was the call on a replacement for Nanai‑Williams, with former Chief Declan O'Donnell ‑ having also been under Cooper's plans.

The Chiefs will meet the Blues at 6.35pm Friday while the Reds face the Brumbies at 9pm.

On Saturday, the Crusaders will take on the Stormers at 6.35pm and the Sunwolves will take on the Rebels at 9pm Saturday.

On Sunday, the Sharks face the Waratahs at 1.05am, the Bulls meet the Lions at 3.15am while the Hurricanes take on the Jaguares at 9.40am.

Source: Stuff