All Blacks captain Scott Barrett is recovering from finger surgical procedure and it’s unclear when he’ll return to the sphere, New Zealand Rugby stated on Saturday.
Barrett is doubtful for subsequent month’s begin of the Rugby Championship after injuring a finger throughout the 47-5 win over Fiji in San Diego final Saturday.
The 72-Check veteran has began all three matches since being named to guide New Zealand by new head coach Scott Robertson, together with the 2-0 house collection sweep of England.
Nevertheless, a brand new captain could also be wanted for his or her opening Rugby Championship Check towards Argentina in Wellington on August 10.
“Scott Barrett injured a finger throughout the All Blacks Check towards Fiji in San Diego which has required a surgical therapy after his return to New Zealand,” a New Zealand Rugby assertion stated.
“The damage is now being assessed.”
Barrett’s absence would additional weaken New Zealand’s locking shares following the worldwide retirement this yr of veterans Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick.
The captaincy would doubtless be handed to unfastened ahead Ardie Savea or midfield again Jordie Barrett — Scott’s youthful brother — who’re the crew’s vice-captains.
A 36-man All Blacks squad to contest the Rugby Championship will likely be named on Sunday.
© Agence France-Presse
Photograph: Xavier Laine/Getty Photographs
