Premier South African Super 14 rugby franchise the Sharks face a flyhalf crisis mere weeks ahead of the start of the international 2010 Super 14 toutnament. South Africa's news24 service reported yesterday that Juan Martin Hernandez is likely to be ruled out of the entire tournament. His injury was complicated by the necessity for Hernandez to undergo back surgery. Agreinetinian Hernandez's contract with the Sharks was for a one year period, ending at the conclusion of the 2010 Super 14. His tenure with the Sharks has now come to an end as he will not recover in time to play. 'The loss of Juan to the Sharks comes as a great disappointment to us, obviously,' admits coach John Plumtree. 'He was an integral part of our backline during the Currie Cup and his development and integration in the team was set to reach new heights during this year's Super 14, after having spent the last six months with the squad. 'He was a consummate professional who was well-liked by his team- mates, and in turn had embraced the culture of the Sharks with relish, having enjoyed his stay with us immensely. 'We will certainly miss him, not only as a player but also a true gentleman of the game.' Although Plumtree was intent on playing Ruan Pienaar at scrumhalf, his plans may have to change. Pienaar underwent minor knee surgery over the off-season and is in doubt for the Sharks' opening home match against last year's losing finalists, the Chiefs from New Zealand, on Saturday, Feb. 13.. The Sharks' back-up flyhalf Monty Dumond, who was on loan to the Cheetahs and was expected to feature in the Bloemfontein-based team's plans, has been recalled to the Sharks' base in Durban. 