The unbeaten Chiefs have lost a clutch of key players and called for replacements for Saturday's Super 14 rugby match against the Western Force in Perth.

Flying All Blacks winger Sitiveni Sivivatu (shoulder) and lock Craig Clarke (groin) have been ruled out through injury.

They are among four players flying home after their successful South African visit to start the season.

Loose forward Sione Lauaki incurred a two-week suspension from the SANZAR judicial committee in South Africa for lifting Lions centre Deon van Rensburg in a tackle during the remarkable 72-65 win in Johannesburg at the weekend.

And prop Joe McGougan is also going home after failing to recover from a back injury.

The most serious injury is that of Clarke, who will be out for three to six weeks. Sivivatu is likely to be sidelined for two weeks after straining his shoulder.

Three replacement players - Chiefs winger Lelia Masaga and wider training group forwards Toby Lynn and Toby Smith will all join the squad in Perth early this week.

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