Massive Blow For New Zealand That Could Have Severe Lions Implications

This is a potential huge blow for Steve Hansen.

The All Blacks face the British & Irish Lions this summer in a three Test series, but are facing a bit of an injury crisis. The likes of Israel Dagg, Dane Coles and Nehe Milner-Skudder are currently doubtful, but this latest injury could be the most important of them all.

While the All Blacks have an embarrassment of riches in most departments, with most injuries barely phasing them, such is their strength in depth, news that Jerome Kaino may miss the series is a real concern.

The Blues have revealed his will undergo surgery for a knee problem and will be sidelined for at least six weeks to to fix a torn meniscus, meaning he is a real doubt for the series.

When you look at their back-row department it’s kind of thin. If you tried to look past Kaino and Read in their respective positions, you’d find it really hard to replace them. Sure Liam Messam can slot in, but past that what do you really have?

The Lions on the other hand have some incredibly talented back-rows in their roster. Gatland can call on the likes of Peter O’Mahony, Sam Warburton, CJ Stander, Billy Vunipola, Sean O’Brien, Toby Faletau and Justin Tipuric.

No doubt this will be a position the Lions will look to target.