Adelaide midfielder Rory Laird is expected to miss 4-6 weeks after suffering a broken right hand in Saturday’s Community Series game against Port Adelaide.

Laird was injured in a contest during the third quarter and did not take any further part in the game.

Scans on Sunday showed he had fractured the third metacarpal in his hand but the Club is hopeful he will avoid surgery.

High Performance Manager Darren Burgess said Laird’s hand would be placed in a splint while he recovers.

“Rory had X-rays on Sunday which confirmed our preliminary thoughts post-game that he had fractured his hand,” Burgess said.

“At this stage we don’t believe it will require surgery however he will meet a hand specialist this week for further assessment.

“It’s unfortunate timing given there are two weeks until Round One but the injury is not expected to hinder his ability to run and stay fit and we will look forward to him returning in the early part of the season.”