Under the knife.

It emerged a couple of weeks back that former All Blacks outhalf Dan Carter would not be returning to Racing 92 as a medical joker despite agreeing a deal – after he failed a medical.

The former World Player of the Year was deemed ineligible to play in France by the French National League after Racing referred his medical results to the organisation who run the Top 14 competition.

“Racing 92 handed over certain elements of his medical dossier to the experts designated by the French National League. Their opinion was unanimous: Dan Carter can’t play rugby in France,” said a statement.

No other information was released at the time but now the New Zealander has explained his reasons for failing the routine medical. It turns out the 37-year-old has an issue with his neck that needs to be addressed and will requirer surgery and rehab to correct the issue.

Here’s hoping the operation is a success and he’s back on a rugby pitch in time for the new Japanese rugby season with his club Kobe Steelers. Get well soon Dan.