Crusaders prop George Bower came off the bench for the South in their victory over the North. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
All Blacks prop George Bower has been ruled out of all rugby this year, leaving him out of contention for selection to the Rugby World Cup.
The proven loosehead underwent knee reconstruction surgery last week to heal a ligament injury he sustained playing for the Crusaders against the Reds in Brisbane three weeks ago.
The Crusaders confirmed Bower's rehabilitation won't be complete by the end of this year in a blow for the 30-year-old, who has been a regular test performer since his debut in July 2021, starting in 11 of his 22 tests over that period.
"We can confirm that the injury George Bower sustained against the Reds in round six has meant he won't be available for selection for the rest of the Super Rugby Pacific '23 competition," a Crusaders statement said.
"His return to play is expected some time in '24."
Bower joins Crusaders and All Blacks team-mate Sevu Reece (wing) in having his season ended by injury, with both ruled out of the global showpiece in France.
It is another setback for the injury-plagued defending champion Crusaders, although coach Scott Robertson revealed to journalists on Wednesday that fullback Will Jordan is poised to return soon from a migraine related illness.
Jordan hasn't played this year, having been ruled out of last year's All Blacks tour of Europe by the same head complaint.
Robertson said Jordan had trained well and is "not far away" but won't be available for Friday's match against the Rebels in Melbourne.
- RNZ