All Blacks boss Dave Rennie delivers Damian McKenzie injury update
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Update.
The All Blacks have received some positive news on Damian McKenzie after the playmaker was forced off during their 54-0 victory over the Sharks in Durban.
McKenzie twisted his left ankle after landing awkwardly while taking a mark during the first half at Kings Park.
The 31-year-old initially played on and even crossed for New Zealand’s second try before eventually being withdrawn before half-time.
With the four-Test series against the Springboks fast approaching, the sight of McKenzie leaving the action was an obvious concern for the All Blacks.
However, head coach Dave Rennie played down the severity of the injury after the game and expects McKenzie to be fine.
“It’s not too bad, but we just felt he was hobbling around less than 100%. He will be fine,” Rennie said.
The update will come as a major relief for New Zealand, who have already dealt with several injury concerns during their Greatest Rivalry tour.
McKenzie will now have time to recover as the All Blacks continue their preparations for the Test portion of the tour.
New Zealand face the Lions in Johannesburg in their final provincial fixture before the opening Test against the Springboks at Ellis Park on August 22.
