Saracens' Brad Barritt is expected to be out for four weeks after injuring his calf during England's win over Australia last month.

The 28-year-old centre missed Sarries' 19-15 win over Sale Sharks in the European Champions Cup on Saturday and director of rugby Mark McCall has confirmed the news.

"Brad pulled his calf in the last game for England," said McCall after the Men in Black overcame Sale.

"It's obviously hugely disappointing for us to lose him for four weeks when he comes back with a pretty significant injury like that. But that's life. We just roll on."

Barritt, who has made 135 appearances for Saracens, made his England debut in 2012 and has since won 22 caps for the Red Rose.

Meanwhile, lock forward Mouritz Botha will leave Saracens to join South African side The Sharks with effect from January 1.

Botha joined the Wolf Pack from Bedford Blues in 2009, making 142 appearances for the club and winning ten England caps.

McCall told the club's website: “Mouritz has been a massive part of our squad and our culture for the past five and a half seasons, and we are very sorry to see him leave. However, this is a great opportunity to play for one of the top teams in the Super XV, and we wish him, Natasha and young Joshua well.”

And Botha added: “Saracens will always be important to me, and it’s difficult to leave so many friends in what remains a unique sporting environment, but the Sharks are trying to build something special in Durban. This will be a great rugby challenge for me, and a great adventure for my young family.”