The Hurricanes are facing an anxious wait to determine the extent of an ankle injury suffered by star playmaker Ruben Love at training.

The Wellington-based franchise confirmed the setback on Saturday afternoon, revealing the 24-year-old would “undergo further assessment in the coming days to determine the severity of the injury”.

While the statement offered little detail, it has inevitably sparked concern given Love’s importance to the side heading into the new campaign.

Love attempted to calm fears in a social media post, writing: “Back soon, nothing major, hei te wā tītoki”, which translates to see you in the future.

The announcement has raised some eyebrows as it’s unusual for a club to announce a minor niggle, especially when they are not playing this week.

The Hurricanes have a first-round bye and kick off their Super Rugby campaign on Friday night against Moana Pasifika at home.

Love, who has played four tests for the All Blacks, is set to play a vital role for the Hurricanes in their Super Rugby Pacific season and was expected to take the reins at first five-eighths.

They are already without one No 10 for the season as Harry Godfrey has been ruled out for the campaign with an ACL injury, leaving Brett Cameron and Lucas Cashmore as the only fit first five-eighths. Callum Harkin can also fill the void.

During the pre-season, the Hurricanes beat the Blues 44-36, before being held scoreless by the Chiefs, 29-0.