Wales had been hoping for a quick return to the line-up after retiring from last month's game against Wightlink Raiders with what was believed to be ligament damage to his wrist.

However an X-ray on Monday revealed a fracture which will definitely rule him out of this weekend's home and away clashes with Peterborough Phantoms.

"We will have to take it week by week as to when he's able to play again," said player-coach Nick Poole.

But fears that defenceman Adam Radmall could also be out of action after injury at Chelmsford Chieftains have proved unfounded. Poole said Radmall twisted his ankle and will be fit this weekend.

Poole will also be back on the ice following the suspension he served last weekend for his team accumulating too many penalty points.

Meanwhile he is calling for the team not to panic when conceding third period goals after establishing healthy leads in recent games against Swindon and Chelmsford. "We need to stay focused and stick to the game plan," said Poole.

Lightning face Peterborough at home on Saturday at 7pm when children will again be admitted for £1. The next day's game at Peterborough begins at 5.30pm.