All Blacks captain Scott Barrett has been ruled out of rugby for three to five months.
Crusaders coach Rob Penney confirms the lock requires back surgery, wiping him out for the rest of Super Rugby, and the bulk of the All Blacks’ test season.
The 32-year-old will miss the All Blacks’ tour of South Africa, which will be preceded by the upcoming Nations Championship tests at home.
His back surgery means a new captain needs to be named at the end of June.
Ardie Savea, looms as the leading contender, with his fellow incumbent vice-captain Jordie Barrett and veteran hooker Codie Taylor two other options.
Source: Stuff.co.nz
