The Crusaders will be without David Havili for a long spell after their star fullback underwent emergency surgery for a serious bowel infection.
Newshub.co.nz earlier reported that Havili would miss several weeks of the tournament, as he recovers from the procedure.
The Crusaders released a brief statement on Havili's situation and refused to elaborate on what they deemed a "non-rugby-related issue".
They say it is a blow for the team and Havili himself and like any other player he has to go through the recovery and get everything right before he takes the field again.
Crusaders assistant coach, Jason Ryan says Will Jordan is likely to replace Havili this week as he is closely returning from an injury.
The Crusaders will take on Sunwovles at 5.35pm Saturday.
[Source: TVNZ]
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