Rugby: Luatua and Tuipulotu out for season

Steven Luatua of the Blues leaves the field after being injured against the Bulls. Photo / Getty

The Blues have confirmed that Steven Luatua and Patrick Tuipulotu have been ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.

Loose forward Luatua dislocated his left shoulder in the 23-18 victory over the Bulls at Eden Park on Friday. Luatua, who had replaced injured captain Jerome Kaino, also has nerve damage in the shoulder area.

All Blacks lock Tuipulotu has a long-term hip injury which has worsened and he too will not be available for the Blues' remaining three matches against the Hurricanes, Crusaders and Highlanders.

The Blues said both players required further tests and there is understood to be a concern that Tuipulotu's injury might need surgery which could rule him out of the World Cup.

To make matters worse for the beleaguered franchise, All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock has been ruled out with a shoulder injury sustained in a collapsed scrum against the Bulls, with Charlie Faumuina out of Saturday's match against the Hurricanes due to All Blacks' leave.

Others who will not be considered include Pita Ahki (hamstring), Dan Bowden (groin) and Bryn Hall (foot).

In total, 13 players are unavailable through injury.

There is better news for All Black Charles Piutau who has made an excellent recovery from his knee injury and may be available before the end of the season.

The Blues are also hopeful that Hamish Northcott (hamstring), Josh Bekhuis (concussion) and Hayden Triggs (calf) will be available to play the Hurricanes.