All Blacks: Cruden's chance to shine

Aaron Cruden is set to start against the Wallabies on September 11. Photo / Getty

Manawatu first five Aaron Cruden looks set to make his run on starting debut for the All Blacks against Australia in Sydney next month.

Incumbent Daniel Carter will miss the test and be sidelined for up to two months after deciding to have ankle surgery in Christchurch tomorrow.

The surgery will repair damage that has been caused over the course of the season which has restricted his movement.

Speaking just prior top his departure from South Africa, Carter says it should mean he will be fully fit for the end of year tour to Hong Kong and the UK.

He says he will have to do a lot of work with the rehab, but the timing is right now to have the operation.

All Black management says Carter has been carrying a niggling ankle injury for most of the season.

Carter and All Black team doctor Deb Robinson have made the decision to have the injury operated on tomorrow in Christchurch.

Carter says he was hampered by the niggle during the Super 14 and it has progressively got worse.

He says it's the right time to get it fixed.

The All Blacks arrive home tonight.

- NEWSTALK ZB