Exeter Chiefs winger Campbell Ridl is set to miss much of the current season after sustaining a significant knee ligament injury. The 21-year-old, an England Under-20 player, was hurt during Exeter's opening pre-season game against Welsh side Scarlets earlier this month.
Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter confirmed to BBC Sport that Ridl has an ACL injury along with cartilage damage. Baxter indicated that a fast recovery could take around six months, but due to the additional damage, it is likely to be a longer-term absence, potentially up to nine months or more.
Ridl was a standout performer last season, scoring 17 tries in 24 games, including one in Exeter's Prem final loss. This injury marks another blow for Exeter, who are also without Italy lock Andrea Zambonin until November due to a shoulder problem.