A suspected broken jaw could force Richie Mo'unga to take a lengthy break from the Crusaders' Super Rugby campaign.
Stuff.co reports that Mo'unga had to leave in the final minutes of the Crusaders' 45‑28 win over the Stormers in Christchurch on Saturday night, having suffered his injury while attempting to prevent Stormers replacement prop Steven Kitshoff from scoring a try.
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson says it is too early to say how long he will be unavailable for.
There is also confirmation this morning that Blues captain and senior halfback Augustine Pulu has been forced out of the two‑game tour to South Africa.
The 28‑year‑old injured his foot in Friday night's 27‑21 defeat to the Chiefs at Eden Park.
Looking at the Super Rugby standings after Round 3, the Lions lead with 14 points, the Rebels are second with 10 points while the Crusaders are also third with 10 points.
The Highlanders will meet the Stormers at 6.35pm this Friday while the Rebels will face the Brumbies at 8.45pm.
On Saturday, the Hurricanes will meet the Crusaders at 6.35pm while the Reds will meet Bulls at 8.45pm Saturday.
The Chiefs are on a bye this week.
