All Blacks center Braydon Ennor injured, out for 9 months
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The All Blacks have had an injury setback only two days after their first squad of the season was announced.
Crusaders center Braydon Ennor ruptured ligaments in his right knee early in the South Island's 38-35 comeback win over North on Saturday, a prelude to the announcement of coach Ian Foster’s 35-man squad. He may be sidelined for nine months.
Ennor made his New Zealand debut against Argentina last year and was one of four centers included in Foster’s squad. Foster said he will not pick a replacement for the 23-year-old Ennor until a test schedule for the season has been confirmed.
“It’s hugely disappointing for Braydon but he is a strong young man and we’ll be supporting him as he goes through his surgery and rehab over the next few months,” Foster said.
The All Blacks are still awaiting confirmation of whether the four-nation Rugby Championship will be played in New Zealand in November and December. Dates and venues for a Bledisloe Cup series against Australia have also yet to be confirmed.
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