Wellington: The All Blacks suffered a double blow on the eve of Saturday’s Test against the Wallabies with captain Richie McCaw and wing Cory Jane ruled out after picking up injuries in training.
“Richie McCaw has been ruled out of Test with tight calf. Cory Jane also out w mild hamstring strain,” the All Blacks posted on their Twitter account.
A team spokesman would not comment on the posting but said injury updates would be made at the captain’s run later Friday. It is understood the injuries flared up during training on Thursday.
Sam Cane replaces McCaw on the openside flank and Charles Piutau will start on the right wing, with Steven Luatua added to the replacements, the All Blacks’ official Twitter account said.
In recent weeks McCaw has been troubled by a knee injury suffered against Argentina early in the rugby championship.
Jane had been rushed back after only two appearances in New Zealand’s provincial competition since sitting out most of the year with knee ligaments damaged in pre-season training.
All Blacks (15-1)
Israel Dagg; Charles Piutau, Ben Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea; Aaron Cruden, Aaron Smith; Kieran Read (captain), Sam Cane, Liam Messam; Sam Whitelock, Jeremy Thrush; Charlie Faumuina, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett, Ben Franks, Brodie Retallick, Steven Luatua, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Beauden Barrett, Tom Taylor.
Dear TNT Reader,
At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.
Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.
But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.
Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.
Donate Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription