Rugby: So'oialo ruled out of semi

Scott Waldrom has been brought into the Hurricanes' starting side. Photo / Getty Images

Hurricanes skipper Rodney So'oialo has been ruled out of playing in tonight's Super 14 semifinal against the Crusaders in Christchurch.

So'oialo has torn an intercostal muscle between the ribs which helps breathing.

The 28-year-old was desperate to play but Hurricanes' medical staff have ruled him out.

Chris Masoe will move to the back of the scrum, with Scott Waldrom starting at openside flanker and his brother Thomas coming on to the bench.

- NEWSTALK ZB