The Blues have suffered a major blow ahead of their must-win clash against the Hurricanes after losing Dalton Papali’i to a fractured jaw.
Papali’i was injured in last weekend’s defeat to the Crusaders in Christchurch. He initially tried to play on after taking a heavy knock in a tackle, but was forced off after just 12 minutes.
The injury is expected to sideline the All Blacks loose forward for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
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If confirmed, Papali’i has already played his final match for the Blues before his move to France at the end of the season.
The timing could hardly be worse for Vern Cotter’s side, who are fighting to keep their title defence alive.
However, the Auckland outfit have responded by recalling Anton Segner at openside flank for Saturday’s crunch derby.
There is also a major backline shake-up, with Beauden Barrett restored at flyhalf after starting on the bench against the Crusaders.
Stephen Perofeta provides cover from the bench, while Zarn Sullivan starts at fullback.
“Last week hurt and the group knows we need to be better in the areas that matter. We’ve had a strong week of preparation and there’s real intent around the way we want to play on Saturday night,” Cotter said.
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“The Hurricanes are in top form, so we know the challenge in front of us and the focus is on delivering an accurate, physical performance.
“There’s always a lift playing at home. Our fans create a special atmosphere for the players and we look forward to getting back out there in front of them again on Saturday.”
Photo: Joe Allison/Getty Images
The post Broken jaw sidelines All Blacks flanker appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Blues have suffered a major blow ahead of their must-win clash against the Hurricanes after losing Dalton Papali’i to a fractured jaw.
The post Broken jaw sidelines All Blacks flanker appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
