Crusaders flank Jordan Taufua has been ruled out of Saturday’s Super Rugby final against the Lions in Christchurch with a broken arm.
The 26-year-0ld sustained the injury in the 19th minute of the Crusaders’ 30-12 semi-final victory over the Hurricanes.
He will also miss the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship campaign.
‘Unfortunately for me that’s my season on the field done,’ said Taufua on Instagram. ‘Pretty gutted to not be able to run out with my brothers for the final but will be a loud and proud supporter off it!! One more to go.’
The Crusaders will also be without reserve hooker Seb Siataga, who will have surgery on a broken arm. With Andrew Makalio (calf muscle problem) and Ben Funnell (season-ending knee injury) sidelined, fourth-choice hooker Sam Anderson-Heather is expected to come into the match 23.
Substitute tighthead prop Mike Alaalatoa is also in doubt for the final.
‘He tweaked his back and we will know in the next 24 hours how bad that is, that’s all we know at this stage,’ said coach Scott Robertson.
Donald Brighouse or Chris King would replace Alaalatoa if he was ruled out.
Photo: Kai Schwoerer/Getty Images