Wallaby and Brumbies lock David Giffin has been ruled out of Friday's round eight Super 12 clash with the Highlanders at Canberra Stadium with a lower back injury.

Giffin sustained a small fracture in his back in the first half against the Crusaders on Saturday, but is expected to recover in time to take on the Waratahs in round 10.

"We've got some important games coming up against some good sides and it's disappointing to miss any football at this stage of the year," Giffin said.

"It's a small fracture of the transverse process which is not too serious but very painful. Hopefully I'll be back in time for the Waratahs."

With the Brumbies having the bye next week, it should mean Giffin will only miss one Super 12 match.

"The bye certainly comes at a good time for me and for the team, as there are a number of niggles that you start to get towards the end of the season," said Giffin.

The only other injury concerns at the Brumbies are a cork to winger Clyde Rathbone and a bruised left knee to inside centre Matt Giteau.

Brumbies coach David Nucifora says both players are expected to be available on Friday.

Radike Samo is expected to take Giffin's place in the starting lineup.

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