Wellington, Feb 28 NZPA - The Hurricanes have been struck down by injuries ahead of their Super 14 rugby tour to South Africa.

Fresh from beating the Lions 33-18 here last night, the Hurricanes depart for South Africa tomorrow morning without four frontline players in lock Jason Eaton, utility back Tamati Ellison, midfield back Jason Kawau and centre Conrad Smith.

Eaton, Ellison and Smith were all injured during the win over the Lions, the Hurricanes' third in succession this season.

Eaton ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee which is likely to require surgery, putting him out of the game for about six months. The All Black suffered a similar injury to his left knee in 2007.

Ellison hurt his right shoulder and will be unavailable for next weekend's game against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein, while Smith sprained his right thumb and will also miss that match.

Kawau, meanwhile, is recovering from sinus surgery and will not travel for at least another week.

With three midfield backs injured, the Hurricanes will travel with just 25 players, including Alapati Leiua from their wider training group, and Brett Mather from the Highlanders' wider training group.

Team management intend adding a 26th player to the squad in time for the match against the Stormers in Cape Town on March 14.

There was better news on the injury front for the Hurricanes, with lock Jeremy Thrush and prop Anthony Perenise among those leaving tomorrow after overcoming injuries.