- New Zealand rugby captain Scott Barrett has undergone back surgery, sidelining him for up to five months.
- This injury means Barrett will miss the start of the Nations Championship and the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
- He is set to miss four Tests against the Springboks, along with home fixtures against France, Italy, and Ireland.
- His absence creates a captaincy dilemma for newly-appointed New Zealand coach Dave Rennie, with Ardie Savea considered a frontrunner to step in.
- Fellow Crusader Will Jordan is also a doubt for the international season opener against France on 4 July due to a calf issue.
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