Jamie Roberts sidelined with fractured cheekbone

Bath Rugby will miss the services of Wales international Jamie Roberts for four to six weeks following a fractured cheekbone.

The 31-year-old suffered the injury during the recently concluded Gallagher Premiership encounter against his former club Harlequins at Twickenham Stoop where he scored the opening try as Bath completed a 32-37 victory.

Bath director of rugby Todd Blackadder confirmed the news on Roberts and expects him to return in less than six weeks.

"I thought Jamie was outstanding against Quins," Blackadder said.

"We're not sure how long yet but hopefully nothing more than four to six weeks - it could even be earlier."

Earlier, England international Brad Shields was also sidelined for between three to eight weeks following a broken cheekbone when he played for Wasps in the Premiership game against Exeter Chiefs in the second round of the competition.

Bath currently are at fifth position in the table with nine points and will host Northampton Saints at Recreation Ground next on 22nd September.