New Manly Warringah Sea Eagles utility Jackson Hastings will miss the Downer NRL Auckland Nines after entering hospital on Thursday for a minor ankle operation.
Hastings was to make his debut for Manly at the Nines but has opted for immediate attention to a nagging ankle problem.
He will be available for the start of the NRL Premiership.
Hastings has impressed at training since joining Manly in early January and has completed all sessions before scans on his ankle revealed a clean out was necessary.
Sea Eagles coach Trent Barrett said it was decided to have the operation immediately to give Hastings every opportunity to start the season injury free.
