Some cheeky news for Tuitavake
Thu, 04 Sep 2008 15:06
The All Blacks have suffered a significant blow leading up to their Tri-Nations' decider against Australia next weekend, with wing Anthony Tuitavake being ruled out of all rugby for at least six weeks.
Scans have revealed that Tuitavake fractured a cheek bone during the All Blacks 101-14 drubbing of Samoa in New Plymouth on Wednesday - having played a significant role in the game.
All Black assistant coach Steve Hansen was not able to confirm whether they would replace Tuitavake ahead of the Tri-Nations climax in Brisbane on September 13.
He did however point out the All Blacks have adequate of cover at wing, but that a decision would be made over the weekend.
With the resources of Richard Kahui, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Isaia Toeava and Rudi Wulf out wide, management may also use this opportunity to draft Joe Rokocoko back into the national setup - although the Auckland wing has his sights set on the All Blacks' November tour.
Tuitavake's injury also means that he is unlikely to play for his provincial union, North Harbour, in the Air New Zealand (NZ) Cup, though could make the All Blacks' end-of-year tour to the United Kingdom - which starts in Hong Kong with a final Bledisloe Cup clash against Australia.
All Black coach Graham Henry had earlier given his side a clean bill of health, saying that Tuitavake was fine and had merely taken "a bit of a head knock".
Mils Muliaina had a knee complaint following the Samoan Test, but he should be fit to play in Brisbane.
