All Blacks utility back Damian McKenzie was ruled out of the World Cup on Monday.
And New Zealand coach Steve Hansen is expecting more players not to make it to the global showpiece in Japan.
McKenzie suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee playing for the Chiefs against the Blues at the weekend and, given the ferocity of Super Rugby New Zealand derbies, Hansen says he could lose more players over the next few months.
He explains: “He McKenzie could be out for eight to nine months.
“It’s a real shame for him, his World Cup opportunity has gone.
“We’ve got to expect injuries and there’ll be more than just him, I suggest, by the time we finally name the team to go to the World Cup.”
At least nine All Blacks are currently on the injured list including Sonny Bill Williams.