Crusaders first-five-eighths Daniel Carter could be out of action for up to six weeks, and possibly longer, as a result of his ankle injury suffered during last night's Super 14 rugby match against the Hurricanes in Wellington.
While All Black Carter, 26, was cleared of any structural damageby an x-ray following the Crusaders' 20-13 win, an MRI scan conducted in Wellington today revealed that Carter had suffered a "high ankle sprain".
" He will be unable to bear weight on the ankle during the initial stages of his recovery," Crusaders doctor Tony Page said.
"Dan's injury is of a similar nature, but of possibly increased severity, to that which was suffered by Crusaders halfback Andrew Ellis earlier in the campaign.
" Once the swelling has reduced, Dan will be reviewed and we will have a clearer picture of the likely time-line as to when he will be able to resume training."
Carter sustained the injury in a tackle on a Hurricanes player in the 65th minute of the game.
Page said all cases are different.
Ellis was originally expected to be sidelined for six weeks after suffering his injury during the Crusaders' opening pre-season match against the Hurricanes, but recovered in three weeks.
The Crusaders, who lead the competition after recording their seventh straight win on Friday night, have the bye next week.
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