Gold Coast SUNS ruckman Tom Nicholls had scans in Melbourne today to determine the extent of the injury he suffered in Sunday's victory over North Melbourne. 

Nicholls' scans revealed he will be sidelined for an extended period after straining his PCL (posterior cruciate ligament).  

Nicholls injured his knee at a centre bounce ruck contest during the third quarter of the SUNS’ win over the Kangaroos at Etihad Stadium.

General Manager - Football Operations, Marcus Ashcroft, said it was too early to confirm a return date for Nicholls.

"The results of Tom's scans have confirmed a PCL strain. Tom and the club will determine the most appropriate course of action to treat the injury in the coming days.

"The exact timeframe that Tom will be sidelined for is unknown and will become apparent as he works his way through the rehabilitation program," Ashcroft said.