Francis Saili ruled out for four months due to surgery

Munster will miss the services of All Blacks international Francis Saili for up to four months after he underwent another shoulder surgery.

Director of rugby at Munster Rassie Erasmus confirmed the news to Irish Examiner which is likely to keep the New Zealand centre out the first four matches Champions Cup.

The 25-year-old had earlier underwent a surgery on his shoulder at the end of the previous season and was now forced for the second time to go under the knife in order to address the injury.

"We got a setback with his shoulder," Erasmus said.

"He went in for a scope yesterday. There was some more repair work (needed).

"It's going to be an extended lay-off. It wasn't great news but it is what it is."

Saili joined Munster in 2015 and has made 22 appearances for the club prior to which he represented the Super Rugby club Blues for three years. He has made just two international appearances for the All Blacks with both the games coming in 2013.

After finishing sixth in the previous season of Pro12, Munster will begin their pre-season fixture against Zebre in Waterford on Friday. However, the Ireland internationals, who took part in the South African tour will be rested for the game.