The All Blacks look set to defend New Zealand from the world champion Springboks in September without a scrum juggernaut.
Loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams was on Monday ruled out of the pending three-Test series against France with a knee injury that requires surgery. It is the second setback for the All Blacks in a matter of days, with rising back-row star Wallace Sititi also sidelined and needing an operation for an ankle issue.
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Williams, 24, suffered a torn meniscus during the recent Super Rugby final, where he helped the Crusaders beat the Chiefs.
“Scans have revealed the tear,” New Zealand Rugby said. “Assessment by a surgeon this morning has confirmed surgery will be required.”
Depending on the surgery, whether it is a repair or a more aggressive procedure, the recovery period for the 18-Test prop could be as short as six weeks or as long as six months.
George Bower has been brought into the squad to replace him.
New Zealand face France in Dunedin, Wellington and Hamilton, with the first Test on July 5, and the All Blacks are scheduled to host the Boks on 6 and 13 September.
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