Crusaders linchpin Andrew Mehrtens could be out of Super 12 rugby action for the first three rounds while he tries to shake off a chronic groin injury.
The problem has prevented the All Blacks first five-eighth from training at full intensity and has forced Crusaders coach Robbie Deans to omit him from their opening match against the ACT Brumbies in Canberra tomorrow night.
Deans said before the team left for Australia, that Mehrtens did not need surgery, but he certainly would not be back next week against the Blues in Auckland.
"And if it's not the week after (against the Chiefs in Christchurch) we could be looking at a month before he's back. It just depends on how he responds."
Deans said Mehrtens was basically back to the drawing board.
"He really has to start from square one again and just get his leg right. It's been a burden to him for some time and it hasn't allowed him to prepare effectively.
"He hasn't been able to do a consistent workload and, as a result, it's come out in his physical performance. His (fitness) test results aren't great and he's also experienced a bit of pain, intermittently.
"It's impacted on his fitness to such an extent that even if he's experiencing no pain, he's not in the shape he needs to be to play the game."
Deans said the Crusaders' medical team had advised surgery was not required.
Mehrtens carried the injury through much of last season.
Aaron Mauger steps in at first five-eighth, while Ben Blair will do the goalkicking.
All Blacks lock Norm Maxwell will miss the Brumbies game and could also be rested against the Blues to give him time to overcome muscle imbalances associated with injuries sustained last year. Centres Mark Robinson (achilles) and Nathan Mauger (cracked rib) are also missing tomorrow night.
Another feature of the side is former Brisbane Broncos league forward Brad Thorn listed in the reserves, while All Black front row prop Greg Feek, struggling with a hamstring injury, has been bracketed with David Hewitt.
The Brumbies have their own concerns, Wallaby first five-eighth Stephen Larkham being a doubtful starter.
- REUTERS
New Zealand's Super 12 squads
2001 Super 12 schedule/scoreboard
Injury worries for Mehrtens
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.