The Highlanders have the depth to manage the loss of Liam Squire and the big flanker should be back for the side's tour of South Africa.
Squire broke his thumb late in the first half of the home team's win over the Crusaders at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday night.
He tried to continue but did not return after halftime.
He had the thumb scanned later that night when it was discovered it was broken and he would be out for up to six weeks.
That means he will be in line to return to the Highlanders at the start of their South African trip at the end of April.
The Highlanders play the Bulls and the Sharks on their travels and Squire will be targeting the tour to come back on the field.
He broke the same thumb when he was playing in South Africa last year for the Highlanders and also missed six weeks.
Thumb injuries are common for many players and it is the latest in a line of injuries for Squire, who has also had knee injuries and concussion issues.
Squire, who turns 27 today, will still be able to train during his recovery although he will lose match fitness.
But one man's loss is another opportunity and the door now opens for Elliot Dixon.
After winning selection for the All Blacks in 2016, the drums went quiet for Dixon last year as he battled niggling injuries and could not get a start for the Highlanders.
But he exploded out of the blocks last Saturday night, scoring a try and also roaming the field, looking dangerous on attack and lively with the ball in hand.
Dixon is in the final year of his contract with the Highlanders and is tossing up whether to stay in New Zealand or head overseas.
His destiny may well be decided over the next few weeks when he is likely to start for the Highlanders.
Dixon's lineout prowess is also an asset for the side and he has a real ability to secure the ball at the front.
The alternative loose forward options include Shannon Frizell and Dan Pryor while Southland's Phil Halder had trained with the squad.
James Lentjes is still coming back from a shoulder operation though he has been able to start running with the squad.
Otago's Adam Knight and former New Zealand colt Kyle Harris were on the flanks for the Highlanders Bravehearts in the development's side impressive 40-14 win over the Crusaders Knights on Saturday.
With Saturday's win over the Crusaders, the Highlanders are sitting top of the New Zealand conference on 13 points.
The side takes on the Hurricanes in Wellington on Saturday night.