Rugby: Auckland lose promising winger to injury

Auckland winger Dave Thomas faces six months on the sideline with a knee injury. Photo / Getty Images

Auckland's Air NZ Cup rugby campaign has been dealt a blow with promising winger Dave Thomas expected to be out for up to six months because of a knee injury.

A scan has confirmed Thomas suffered cruciate ligament damage in the 23-20 win over Manawatu on Sunday, coach Mark Anscombe said today.

The injury occurred during a collision with opposition second five-eighth Johnny Leota.

Thomas, 21, had made a good start to his first Air NZ Cup season and his mishap has cast doubt on his hopes of making it into the Super 14 next year.

His unavailability further depletes Anscombe's options out wide as Auckland prepare to host neighbours North Harbour on Saturday.

"It's not an area of strength," he said.

"We've brought two boys into training today from the development team, so we'll see how they go."

- NZPA